Winterization

[Robert Most]

I've had a pond for twenty yrs. Several ups and downs but I enjoy it immensely. My question involves how to protect my fish in the winter when the lilies die back and they have no cover. In the last month I've scared off a big egret two times that was hellbent on having a koi lunch. We've also had blue herons pay visits. Our pond is about 3 1/2 ft. deep but these birds have long necks. I've checked with local pond stores about large fake water lilies or something similar to give the fish a little cover, but they can't find anything. Right now I'm thinking of putting bubble wrap on top, but would like to find something more attractive. Any ideas?

 

[addy1]

I had to go to a wide weave net hung over the pond. Nothing else worked. Even with a lily cover the heron visited.

 

[j.w]

Me too had to go w/the net. Tried it all from loud radio, fence around edge, wind chimes, fishing line, string across the top,running after them w/a broom etc. I've heard the water scarecrows work but what do you do in winter when the water in those freezes? So at peace w/the net now. The squares in the netting are large and have it up off the ground a ways so I can get under and in there if need be.

 

[sissy]

you can see addys great in the snow pics now .Her net really shows up .

 

[Becky]

Hey there, just wanted to say welcome to the forum