Goldish Losing Scales after an attack

[mcmurfitt]

I believe my large pond goldfish was attacked perhaps by a heron. I found him 15ft from the pond this morning. He didn't have any obvious injury (like a hole through him) and I thought he was dead but when I touched him he flipped about so the attack must have just happened. I've put him in a large bucket and he's quite alive but it looks like the scales on one side of his body were torn off and I can see some scales on the bottom of the bucket. Should I keep him isolated?

I just saw this in a search: "It's a fascinating hunting technique these herons have evolved, serving multiple purposes for the bird. By tossing the fish up, they can align it for a more accurate, efficient catch. The behavior also helps remove scales or unwanted parts before swallowing the nutritious portions of the prey."

 

[j.w]

@mcmurfitt
If the fish is acting normal I think I would put it back into the pond where it might feel more comfortable. Now you will need a net to cover the pond or that bird if that's what it was comes right back. If it was a heron he will be back to clean out your pond one fish at a time!

 

[GBBUDD]

IF there is areas in the pond that the fish can get into to hide and you can't get too than yes i would keep the fish quarantined.