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Ponds can be a wonderful addition to any garden and fish can add to the aesthetic. There’s nothing quite like heading out to your pond, listening to the water and watching your fish glide peacefully through the water. Unfortunately, it’s not always easy to hold on to this experience, especially if hungry predators catch on to this tasty spot.
Read on to discover how to identify, manage and protect your pond from pond predators.
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What are pond predators?
Pond predators are any animal that typically resides outside your pond that is a threat to your fish. Common pond predators include:
- Herons: Tall birds, long-legs, sharp beak
- Signs of activity: Missing fish, disturbed plants and shallow water footprints.
- Kingfisher: Small, brightly coloured birds that dive for fish
- Signs of activity: Sudden splashes and sightings of these colourful birds.
- Dragonfly Nymphs: Predatory larvae that feed on smaller fish, tadpoles and insects.
- Signs of activity: Decreasing numbers of small fish and tadpoles.
- Minks: A non-native predator known for depleting fish and amphibian population.
- Signs of activity: Damaged pond liners and scattered remains.
- Cats: Domestic cats may stalk ponds to hunt fish
- Signs of activity: Paw prints, or fish with superficial injuries.
- Foxes: Opportunistic predators that may investigate ponds in both urban and rural areas.
- Signs of activity: Tracks around the pond, scattered remains of fish, trampled plants.
Other common pond predators in the UK includes, owls, cranes, egrets, racoons, deer, squirrels, beavers and snakes.
1. Assess the damage
The first step is to count your fish, checking to see if any are injured or missing. Next check the surroundings, are any plants damaged or uprooted? Finally look for tracks, examine the ground and check the area for footprints or any other signs of predator activity.
2. Remove injured fish
If you have found that you have injured fish in your pond, it is best to take them out and put them in a separate tank to prevent infection. Treat the wounds with an anti-bacteria treatment. These will be available from aquatic suppliers to help your fish recover. For further advice, take photos of the attack and the fish injuries and bring this with you to an aquatic store.
3. Repair structural damage
If the pond liner, pumps or filters have been damaged, repair them immediately to restore the pond ecosystem. If you need to top up the water levels with tap water, use a product like Chlorine Klear to reduce the amount of chlorine that enters the pond.
Caves
The first and most subtle way of protecting fish from predators is creating hiding spaces within the pond for fish to find shelter. Fish that are bread domestically will not be fearful of predators until they first encounter one. Once this experience has taken place, they will then know when they next encounter a predator, they need to hide. Create hiding spaces in your pond using rocks or plants. A permanent cave made with rocks is the safest option.
Netting
Netting is an effective way of not only protecting your pond from predators but also stopping organic debris from falling into the water. The only downside to netting is that it can be unsightly and ruin the aesthetic the pond brings into your garden. Ensure you use good quality netting as cheap plastic netting can be easily clawed or pecked.
Monofilament Line
Monofilament line is a clear fishing wire that can be used to create an invisible net over the top of the pond. This net is typically raised over the pond and therefore only prevents birds from diving into the pond. Any other predator on land will still be able to access the pond.
Decoys
A plastic heron can do more protecting than you first might think. Herons are known for being territorial therefore if a real heron flying by sees the pond and the heron, chances are the real heron will not approach.
Sunshade
A sunshade is another way of protecting your fish from birds as they will not see the pond. The other benefit of having a sunshade over your pond is that it reduces the amount of UV that can enter the pond which therefore reduces algae and green water.
Dog
Dogs can be one of the best protectors for your pond as they are territorial. A simple bark or run around the garden can be enough to scare off any predator. Certain breeds are known to be more territorial than others.
Motion Deterrents
Motion deterrents are a great way to scare off predators. Motion-activated sprinklers release a quick burst of water at any sign of movement. Many models are designed to operated 24/7 with sensors that function both in daylight and in darkness. Alternatively, motion-sensored lights are another option to protect your pond from nocturnal predators.
1. Regular Inspections
Regularly check your pond for any signs of predators as well as monitor fish behaviour. You may consider investing in a outdoor wildlife camera. If you notice your fish are hiding or have unusual swimming patterns, this may indicate they are stressed. Do not overfeed your fish as this may attract predators.
2. Promote Biodiversity
Attracting natural allies can help you manage your predator population. Try encourage frogs, toads and insects by creating an inviting environment.
3. Address Invasive Species
If you suspect that you have an invasive species of pond predator, contract your local wildlife authorities for further guidance.
Pond Predators are, unfortunately, something you cannot control, but you can put steps in place to keep your fish safe. We hope you found this blog useful and now feel equipped to go out and protect your pond. To discover how to keep your fish safe from the invisible pond predator, read about pond parameters here.
Related Products
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Envii Pond Klear
£11.99Clears green pond water and prevents algae.Add to Basket -
Envii Chlorine Klear
£14.99Removes harmful chlorine and chloramines from tap water.Add to Basket
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