How To Defend Your Fish From Pond Predators In Rochester NY

6/11/2017

How To Protect Pond Fish And Koi From Heron|Rochester|NY|New York|near me

A lot of time and effort are spent caring for our fish friends in Rochester NY. Fish protection is of utmost importance when the foliage of our plants start to give way to colder temperatures. Since this change comes about pretty abruptly, we figure it’s good to get our cards out on the table early. An informed attack is a successful one when it comes to predator defense!

Heron, Stalking A Pond

First let’s determine who is after our pals. Predators vary depending on your geographical location. For us in Rochester NY, it’s mainly the Heron & curious Raccoon but those are the two most prevalent in the hobby. It’s for this reason, that we need to be proactive, not reactive, to our pets’ protection. There are others but these are the two most prevalent in the hobby.

How can I protect my pond fish from the heron in Rochester (NY) or near me?

Pond Predator Rochester NY

For the heron, things get a little more challenging. They are very crafty and smart birds and you should not underestimate them. There are many methods available to keep them or scare them away from your pond – from plastic heron statue replicas to floating alligator decoys and motion-activated sprinkler. Keeping them in a fresh position will be sure to send an “I’m real” vibe to intruders.

The floating Alligator is just convincing enough to keep the Heron from swooping in on your oasis. Just be sure to keep the head and body exposed and free from tangling in your plants. These options toward him all offer varying levels of success for every water garden hobbyist.

Pond Predators In Rochester NY

How can I protect my koi from the heron & animals in Rochester (NY) or near me?

For the raccoon, you have to first remember he doesn’t mind getting his hands wet, but will probably not purposely go for a swim to catch a fish. He can be held at bay by the way the pond is designed. A plantshelf that is too shallow will help him snag a fish every time.

Pond Plants Are Also A Great Measure Against Attacks

For example the lily will show great pad size around this time of year, keeping a healthy cover over your friends. Grasses give extensive root systems for fish to hide in and will give a healthy appearance well into the fall season. Remember, keeping your fish friends happy and healthy is easy with some creativity and a few spare moments.

Why are my fish disappearing in Rochester (NY) or near me?

ScareCrow

How To Protect Pond Fish And Koi In Rochester (NY) or near me

Another decoy on the market is a motion-activated sprinkler called a Scarecrow. When the predator gets close enough the motion sensor will activate, and the visitor will get a quick blast of water.

The water will turn on for a couple of seconds and is usually enough to annoy whatever predator may be present. Our clients have had great success with this device in the past!

The Scarecrow doesn’t distinguish between predator or human, so you can watch your friends, family, and even us if we are maintaining your pond get shot by a stream of water! Funny!)