Koi pond problems: Keeping predators away
Owning and maintaining a koi pond is a rewarding yet challenging feat. Koi pond problems are many – from finding the right location and the perfect amount of sunlight, to managing the filtration and algae levels. The last koi pond problem you want to deal with is pest birds or predatory animals.
Koi, or nishikigio, are really just an ornamental variety of common carp. However, their beautiful bright colors put them at a disadvantage against predators such as large birds, raccoons, cats, foxes and more.
It is important to design a koi pond with predator protection in mind:
- Make the water too deep for large birds such as herons to stand
- Create rock overhangs high enough above the water that animals cannot reach in
- Plant trees and shrubs that block the view from pest birds above
- Consider placing netting on the surface of the water as a barrier
- Install other bird and pest control solutions if necessary
If you think your koi pond is susceptible to pest bird problems, consider placing a visual scare such as a Gator Guard in the pond. Gator Guard is a plastic alligator head replica that floats naturally in the water, posing no danger to the fish, while intimidating pest birds within visible range. Be sure to clean the Gator Guard regularly; too much algae build-up can affect your koi pond’s tiny ecosystem.
If you have pest animals causing koi pond problems, you may want to install an electronic pest repeller. Ultrasonic and sonic devices repel pest animals and birds in a way that is discreet, humane, eco-friendly and effective 24/7. For instance, the Yard Gard repeller is nearly silent to humans and repels critters in areas for up to 4,000 sq. ft.
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