10 Ways to Keep Herons Away From Your Pond

[@Anointed2flag]

you covered everyone i know of and i am a professional pond contractor.... GOOD JOB

[@FoisyAquatics]

Thank you!

[@Phase1Digital]

We hung a triangular sail above the pond which blocked the visibility of the pond from the sky. The sail is about 12' above the pond so we can still enjoy it and see it. It also gave the pond some much needed shade which cut down on the algae.

[@sallydagna2655]

I really liked this video. You share some excellent things to try and keep ponds safe from predators. We have had challenges with herons, and tried several of the suggestions you show here, but now we also have raccoons coming at night so I am about to double-up on some of the methods. One thing that we have found interesting that is really a sort of variation on what you list here is a removable fence around the pond. We dug holes 10' apart in the ground to sink 2" diameter x 8" deep PVC pipes. Then, we purchased some 5' long 1.5" diameter wood fence posts, painted them a dark green to more or less match the foliage color. Then, we cut netting strips to be 4' wide x 10' long and stapled them to the posts. Now, by dropping the end of each post in the PVC hole, and having the netting create the fence in between the posts, the heron can't as easily fly away if discovered. Our pond is under some trees so the heron's flight path is limited, and with the net fence now going across the only clear flight path, he does not feel as safe working his way onto the ledge sides of the pond. When we want to sit out by the pond and enjoy watching and feeding our koi, we just pull the fence posts out, roll them up with the netting, and set them aside. I also do play talk radio quietly during the day, and have been through a couple of motion-sensor sprinklers, but now have a new one that I will be installing this weekend. Now that we have raccoons I have also installed motion sensor solar lights around the pond that come on when they pass by at night. Hopefully, between the lights and the sprinkler at night the raccoons wlll decide to go elsewhere.

[@timsmith8687]

That's a really good idea using plastic piping , thank you I may use this myself.

[@simonturner10]

If you have a small garden consider running fishing line above head height, break the herons flight path, if he cant land he wont hunt, Herons have a large wingspan and the second it touches the line it will be off. That way the line is above you so not visiable (especially if its clear line) and you still get to enjoy the beauty of your pond.

[@dubya724]

Yep I’ve done that and it has been effective

[@miguelarodz]

Great video, I work at a water gardening center and I have 3 ponds I take care of. I keep a net over my koi pond. One thing that you could mention is building a pergola, less expensive than making a greenhouse and herons don't want to go under something that they couldn't get away from quickly. You can also put an drop down net with the pergola to make it full proof during the spring and fall. Only downside that it makes your pond have less sun which isn't the best for lilies.

[@FoisyAquatics]

I've thought about doing this for years!

[@jeansample3]

I have a pergola over my pond with corrugated roofing. After 5 years of zero problems, I went to feed my fish and was shocked to see a large heron perched on a chair. This pond is in a confined courtyard and is an above ground pond. Thankfully he didn’t get any…yet

[@believeitornick370]

I'm happy that 9:10 finally showcases the auto-turret approach

[@brodefineportraiture446]

A Nickelback album on loop works well too. Also controls mosquito, termites, raccoons, the asshle neighbor. Havent had any mail in 6 months either. Weird....and the Venus de Milo statue in my yard is bleeding from the ears

[@lisanardone3587]

😂🤣😂🤣

[@turbocpt1]

Thanks.. This is how you remind me

[@brianfolsen1919]

I came to learn about herons. Leaving with a much better knowledge. Ty

[@kylestoyko9031]

Lmao, you ppl

[@MrkUS26]

Wow! I'm now reconsidering building a pond..These are very good tips. I live next to a bird sanctuary with hundreds of birds including herons..

[@lancecurry2016]

Great info thank-you. Lots of ideas for next year

[@leslietroisi4185]

We have two sizes of heron decoys in the stream at the waterfalls, we also have motion lights around the pond to scare the night time predators. Our pond is 3 1/2 feet deep but we do have a ledge about 36” from the pond surface. I have plants on the ledge and hyacinth floating and water fountains and some bubblers as needed. The most effective device we use is 4 hi decimal sound alarms that I set before going to sleep or out of town. They went off two nights this week after a quiet month, the predators are more active in the fall. And we have 4 koi caves for them to hide in. We learned the hard way after 40 of our goldfish disappeared to a muskrat. Now I have 24 Koi and they are happy and not stressed out. Next week will put a net over the pond for winter maintenance.

[@carlcat]

Your neighbors must be either very nice, very deaf or very far.

[@This_tub]

You are privileged

[@michaelsteele1436]

The first thing to do is buy a trail camera so you can photo and video the heron's behavior. It is very helpful to have this info so you can decide how to deal with it.

[@adamschwantner484]

Sick to our stomachs!! Girlfriend and I woke up to an empty Koi pond this morning. Hearts are broken, even got our two prized Chinese banded sharks!! Thanks for the video

[@mattmitchell893]

It's the worst feeling ever for a Koi owner...

[@MiyamotoMusashi9]

Nature is unstoppable Sorry for your loss it happened to us and we watched the video Can't be angry at a hungry bird ...

[@juggamina1426]

One came back 2 days on a row got my koi its sad and aggravating

[@emperorsanders5744]

How big was the fish?

[@grantgarlington7ACDriver]

Very good content thank you for posting... we just lost a Koi this morning and within 30 minutes had the sprinkler system set up hopefully it will work we’ve got a camera on the pond but we’re also going to try a few other safeguards

[@garytullis9500]

Nice summary of heron deterrents. I've tried the motion detector - water spray method with an observed failure to detect a heron skulking right in front of the sensor. I wondered if the heat sensitive detector just couldn't pick up its cold legs. I gave up on it. I have also used a net. Unfortunately it was not natural in appearance, and was labor intensive to get it fixed in position and to remove for pond cleaning etc, but no heron attacks were observed while it was employed. However, one winter with ice on the pond and only a small hole in the centre of the pond from an air bubbler, I found one missing koi and a dead one when the ice melted. I suspected a cagey racoon slithered under a small opening at the side of the net, crept over the ice and reached in with its deadly claws. At that point I saw the futility of any further efforts to protect the fish. I have kept one last Koi survivor and added many goldfish which are cheap, grow to a few inches, produce a nice movement of colour in the pond and are too small to be prey for heron or racoons (I hope). Today I've witnessed the first heron this year perched near the pond, and all (or most) of the fish were hiding in a cave. Safe... for now. But he'll be back.

[@mmb811]

Large Disco mirror ball (about the size of a soccer ball) that reflects the sunlight is very effective, however it must be hung on a pendulum that changes position depending on the wind. I have a small spring on a line attached to the pendulum, so the ball constantly changes it's position over the pond depending on the wind direction and strength and swings in all different directions during the day which seem to totally confuse the heron and scare him away. Only problem seems to be every now and then when it is totally overcast weather, which is luckily not too often in South Africa

[@marcelohernandez3365]

Thank you from Germany!

[@SuzyQ2907]

We built our ponds under trees which branch over and cover the pond from being viewed overhead. We also planted landscaping that adds cover, so they really can't be seen from above. We also use water plants for cover and have submerged concrete blocks that the fish can hide in. These are stackable and have the added benefit of acting as plant stands. We have had our ponds for 5 years and successful so far.

[@SammyZak42]

Believe me....it doesn't matter if the heron can see the pond or not. They can smell it! If its there.....they will come!

[@edmondswriter586]

It took 4-5 years for our first heron but they eventually showed up. Their method of hunting? Jump on the plants on the blocks to knock the plants over and then use the block as a hunting platform. What we experienced was that the heron ate the fish by price--highest to lowest--so the koi went first. We've had our pond for 20 years (an irregular-shaped 12x20 sized). It's 2-4 ft deep and we use submerged concrete blocks for our plants and flat on the bottom as fish hides. We also got a high-quality heron decoy before any heron predation occurred. We have wind chimes, too, but the heron didn't care as they blow in the wind (maybe they're predictable?). Our fixes? We no longer buy koi or shubunkins. Only feeder goldfish. However, even when a comet gets to 3 inches in length, they become targets. This year, I took thin metallic ribbon and ran two strands around the perimeter of the pond, twisting it as I installed it. It flutters in a slight breeze and is not that unsightly. We planned on removing it for our annual party but COVID-19. Now that fall is here and we need to remove leaves and needles, I'll create openings on the side. So my solution is not perfect but the heron that was hanging around left and all fish are still accounted for. It won't help with raccoons or river otters. We have raccoons but haven't seen them go after the fish. There are river otters in the area but we haven't seen any near our place. Our friend's pond was depleted of fish by otters in less than a week so that could be an issue in the future.

[@SuzyQ2907]

@@edmondswriter586 Very interesting feedback! Oddly enough our worst losses came from a flooding situation and the fish simply swam away. We do allow the pond plants to almost cover the surface area, so we really don't have a great view into the water, but we do enjoy the sound of the running water.

[@susannierling3643]

My husband cut holes on the sides of a kids small plastic swimming pool and sank it in the pond for a Koi castle. It has been great!

[@michaelkraft6018]

We are near a heron rookery and the devils have wiped me out more than once. We have used the fish line and sprayer methods, but the herons figure those out. Now we cover the pond. You can do this in a way that does not look ugly and detract from the experience. Our netting is mounted on a frame made of electrical conduit painted black. The poles are approximately 8 feet high. Then over that I drape netting that is barely visible. The nets are a pain because they catch on everything, including your own clothing and shoes while draping. The netting is secured around the base with tent stakes or bricks all around. If I want to sit and enjoy the fish without the distraction or work in the pond, I lift the netting up and clip it to the top of the frame. Because we live in New England, I remove the net in winter to avoid having a collapse of the frame in a heavy snow. And in the fall, the net keeps out leaves, but they get so caught up in the net that at the end of the season, I just throw away the net and start with new in the spring.

[@micahmizell3073]

Good for you! I will think about that method, I am making a pond for someone, it is small - not more than 200 gallons - but they have herons, hawks, chickens, racoons and soon to be ducks... thanks!

[@jonschwindt3064]

One note about motion sensor sprayers. They are made from plastic so if temperature dips below freezing they WILL freeze the water sitting inside them and burst.

[@sifishes]

Great video 👍👍👍

[@homerwalker5382]

Nice video for these small ponds. The only method I've found that works on my acre pond is a .22 bullet. Problem solved.

[@BlehBlahBlegh]

Jesus dude that’s awful

[@MikeZak101]

I live in the UK and I use to have herons try there luck with my koi, I don't use anything to stop herons anymore ever since a nice healthy strong colony of crows moved into a huge dark red leafed tree just behind my garden about 10 years ago, you can't even see the crows once there in it but I've witnessed them kill 3 herons over the years. Usually only takes about 2 to 4 crows to orchestrate the move in forcing a heron down to the ground, looks like a bunch of migs taking out a jumbo jet but once its down literally the whole tree moves, there has to be easily over a 150 crows living there, its been about 2 years now since I last saw heron, don't think they even fly near this area anymore, not sure why the crows hate the heron so much to the point of killing them but its handy for me.

[@mgoh1984]

Interesting how nature adapts. I dug a pond last fall and the dozen comet goldfish, (feeders $1 a dozen,) bred for 3 months in the spring. I expanded the pond twice in the spring so it's now about 8' x 12' with a couple deeper holes and most of it around 2' deep. Two young frogs showed up after the third expansion and they helped keep down the goldfish population but I still had to remove a few dozen of the ones that got too big for the fish or frogs to eat. It now has about 60 goldfish which I think are twice as many as the pond should have to stay health since the fish aren't getting any smaller, but I am wondering if a heron will eventually visit as I have seen them fly overtop to other hunting grounds.

[@janetemerson4881]

I have wire fence with plants growing through it & it works. I also have a little Cavashon dog that would chase heron off.

[@artistofnature]

I have used the Fido Shock electric fence for years. Haven't had a problem since I installed that around the pond.

[@jhairuspaquilit3822]

thanks for the ideas

[@ev.h.4256]

Hello I just wanted to say that there is also a silver ball with eyes on it, this is placed in the middle of the pond and the row is reflected, among other things, lightning pulling the sun, there is also a windmill in silver which rotates in the wind and thus with the reflection in series should deter

[@acruru]

I lost 20 plus fish last year. Went out one day, didnt really notice until i looked in and saw a bunch of reflective sequin looking things....fish scales...I was heartbroken...I will be doing the fishing line, adding plants and I love the idea of voice and sound and movement....So wish me luck

[@FoisyAquatics]

Sorry to hear that, I wish you luck

[@darebear6587]

So fishing line works. I use 80lb test. I will post this spring new video. As i am getting a electric fence. Go ahead heron. Come by fir a shock of your life lol 😎

[@acruru]

@@darebear6587 electric....Hmmmm haha...I am hoping fishing line and securing the perimeter with plant material...but I will keep fried Haron in mind...

[@SammyZak42]

Fishing line is If-y at best. I have video of a Heron walking and stepping over and under my fishing line to eat my fish. I'd recommend an electric fence line.

[@ronroberti8082]

The - Dude - I recommend the rifle the heron never came back, or a deep pond, the damned heron can’t fish where he can’t stand!

[@Ricom69]

We eliminated the landing touch down area zones for the Herron with obstructions and fishing line making it difficult to land. we also closed off any runway strips or taxi ways for it to exit. Unfortunately, the desperate Herron took a gamble to land in the pond one evening and cost him his life. Our Pitbull got to it before we can recue it. The stinking heron did a number on our pond though for a while.

[@kennethreister7619]

Electric Fence can work too. Since the heron normally walks to the water rather than landing in it if the water is deep it will bump the wire and be deterred.. The electric fence works great on racoons and other critters that might want to disturb your pond and eat your prized fish.

[@infinitylicks2815]

Me: i’m going to sleep early tonight My Brain at 4 am: HERON VIDEO

[@livingonthelandinwestwales3593]

Ha ha 😂

[@Anointed2flag]

lastly-I built a net over my garden area high above head height so it is totally protected while enabling me to still enjoy my ponds and fish

[@edwardhurst2533]

We have a large bay window overlooking our Courtyard. We were sitting watching TV last evening when I saw a Blue Heron swoop down and land on my patio. This freaked my out because it had a tremendous wingspan. I ran to the door not knowing what it was and it flew off I happen to have several Ring Video Cameras positioned around my house. I had placed one of the cameras on a brick post that is front of my Courtyard. I feed corn to the deer and I have the Ring Camera sitting there so I can watch what used to be a baby deer feed on the corn. After I saw the Blue Heron yesterday I positioned the Ring camera so It would cover my pond. I have that particular camera set with a distinctive ring of dogs barking so I can tell where the disturbance is. It woke me upas about 0630 this morning and I ran to watch him. He looks to be about 3-1/2' tall. Last night I placed a net that I normally keep over my pond during the fall and winter time to keep leaves out of my pond. I have a gorgeous Japanese Maple that overlooks the pond and it looses a lot of leaves. This morning he crept onto the pond not knowing what the net was. I sneaked out my back door so as to sneak up on him. He caught a glimpse of me and was off. I have no desire to hurt him and I know he is doing what he is supposed to do but he can do it somewhere else, I don't want to loose my fish. My pond is somewhat small, maybe about 7'X13' with a really nice waterfall that I built. I had 18 Koi fish in the pond but I can only see two. I put a little shelf in it when I was building to pond. I have lost some really expensive koi over time because of learning. Two years ago I had about 8 but much to my surprise they are multiplying. Right now my largest is a bit under 12". My wife could always call them to come and eat but they won't come out now if there is any left,

[@awall4458]

I have some old cd's hanging around my pond they move in the wind and reflect light. Sofar it worked perfectly

[@muttkat1]

Do you have the cd's hanging off of something or floating around?

[@awall4458]

muttkat I just hang them in a three and they spin in the wind.

[@muttkat1]

@@awall4458 OK, thanks. I put some broken metal tape measuring pieces in the pond and I haven't seen any since. I made some little houses for the fish with big broken clay pots and crates for the fish to hide in. I will certainly hang some CD's from the trees.

[@dhouse609]

Motion sensor method works great. You can turn it off while you are hanging out in you garden.

[@timjohn1194]

We Use store mannequins. Put one on the side of your pond and the Herons think it's a live person. Pretty effective and yes a little weird

[@katgirl1958]

Tim John Great idea!

[@ronroberti8082]

Tim John - I put a fake heron by the pond the real heron took a shit on it, that’s why I shot him!

[@turbocpt1]

Do you chat with him at least now and then?

[@mandybirch3878]

I have just had a Herron trying to get my fish but got disturbed I have bought some wooden trellis but what do u think off the pond ball fountain thank u

[@kitelooper311]

You should also include reflective pinwheels that a lot of people have success with

[@charlesaldous5389]

Yes. All very well. But how can you stop herons (or other birds), from eating all your frogspawn, like happened to our pond last year?

[@kevinsterk9799]

You can also use bio black tint to make harder for the blue he ron to see the fish it has another benefit that it blocks the sun rays helping preventing algae growth

[@Linda-yq8ew]

motion triggered water sprinklers also work for raccoons and in vegetable gardens for birds.

[@calimomtoli]

We have 3 umbrellas over the pond and added a bunch of plastic play balls. Can’t see the fish but it keeps them safer during migration season.

[@oldmcdonald8913]

I have a sign that says "No Herons".

[@twomusketeers8920]

Very effective

[@davemi00]

❌🚫

[@fourwinds9947]

I passed a law

[@jamiecutme3691]

The sign next to my pond reads "Heron-Free Zone". I think the koi put it there, I didn't.

[@ronroberti8082]

Old McDonald - and how’s that working for you?

[@JayMayhem13]

I had a huge heron get 3 of my koi. He came back three days in a row. The third day I let the dog after him and he hasn't been back since. Hope he doesn't figure out she's an inside dog.

[@kapes13]

LOL, we had three cats who would watch a heron with great enthusiasm but the heron just balked at the cats, and kept hunting our poor fish until we relocated the pond.

[@JustErik92]

@@kapes13 shoot a video of heron with cats

[@janandrayjennings5167]

We've always had heavy duty black net all around our pond(2,000galls) attatched to metal posts situated about 4ft distance,net is about 36" high.It's doesn't spoil the views of the fish like a green net would.Never had any koi/fish taken & it's so simple.We have the posts with a curl & plastic cap on the top.I believe they're used for elec.fencing.

[@GlenysJW]

Pretty much what we have done too, used metal piping to create frames around the pond and hung black netting using shower rings. This way we can open as needed. I still hate the nets but have not lost one Koi since we put in and have tried all the other methods that were suggested prior to this. Damn birds!

[@adm924s]

Netting can be fine, I have a pagoda with drop down nets on all sides (not needed on top), large square netting and looks great

[@dingodogie]

I've had good luck with a life-sized plywood cutout of a coyote, not right next to the pond, but off to the side, partially hidden by bushes. If I take it down or it gets knocked over there will be a heron there within a day.

[@deborahdee3387]

I have lived at the same spot for 20 years and I have never seen a heron around here or at any of the lake parks close by. I put in a pond in with gold fish and suddenly we have Herons and I have no fish.

[@easydealautobrokers3483]

lol i have the same exact story! never seen a heron around my house got a couple of koi fish and there are all gone within days due to herons! smh

[@terrydavies4929]

I just saw a video suggesting lines above the pond suspended by trees or posts . They deter the herons because they cannot land easily. Sounds like a great idea

[@bella61567]

I’ve thought about trying to have my dog chase the hair and off, but she’s small and I was worried that heron would attack it. Is that possible?

[@mathewdavis-adventuresandd6643]

My garden is next to my 1/2 acre pond. I recently put up a large scarecrow to scare off the deer from my garden. Added benefit has been no herons in my pond and I was getting daily visits from herons and sometimes two at once.

[@thetwinsjacobandsteve2703]

Thanks for the video. How do you protect a pond from other predators? Also, what do you do when the net was pierced through and the fish were attacked by a predator at night? Could that be a racoon?

[@FoisyAquatics]

I plan on building my next pond to be a brick / stone raised rectangular pond, with a PVC frame that I can cover in netting and lay over the top of it when I am not viewing the fish

[@Lwimmermastermetalart]

The raised net is the only sure way. Even a low net the heron can attack your fish. It won’t be able to get it out but it will for sure kill your fish. A raised net like in your video is perfect however I used 1/4 diameter metal rod to form up the hoops. Painted black with black netting it really won’t detract nearly as much. Hey it’s better to have it not look as nice over loosing expensive Koi. My idea is so good I’m now doing for others. Even the Aquascape contractor loved it. It’s a great idea for a small to medium sized pond. Obviously for a very large pond it won’t work.

[@donmaxwell3313]

Purchased an aquanet to cover my65 sf pond. It is nearly impossible to see. Actually it could be made to sit on the surface or be staked above (haven’t tried). Don’t think that you mentioned this type netting specifically.

[@daveeddy2402]

Nice, that's beautiful

[@puirYorick]

There are YT videos of herons that have walked on some netted ponds and stabbed all the koi through the netting even though they weren't able to get their prey out to consume them all. The koi still died obviously. The fine mesh with poles arched across the pond would prevent that but looks really ugly unless you rig it to be easily removed during your presence somehow. As you said, a multi-pronged approach is best.

[@FoisyAquatics]

Wow, that incredible! Haven't seen those vids, I'll have to check them out. Currently working on designs for a greenhouse pond, so I can eliminate predators entirely (as well as tree debris and winters)!

[@puirYorick]

One notable case was from the European channel about the 1,000,000 gallon koi pond Ep 10 where he had cormorants killing his koi and not even eating them all so he netted the entire pond only to have kingfishers attack the fry of the next batch of koi if I recall. Another guy (don't recall the name) had a fence all around plus netting but the blue heron kept visiting and squeezed itself in between the bars of his wrought iron fencing to spear his koi. He caught it on his cellphone but couldn't do more than yell at it from his upstairs window because it's a protected species. The fishing line perimeter method I've seen defeated by having an island in the middle of the pond where the heron landed to fish from inside. One guy described herons regurgitating over the pond to trick koi out of their koi cave for the apparent meal then spear them. There wasn't footage of it just the story. Once you find one video, YT should suggest some of the rest.

[@mariorosamelo]

Hello, my problem with my pond is Minks, what can we do to get Mink away, they disturbed my pond 3 times, and swapped all my 20-plus koi

[@Anointed2flag]

One thing to add is doing some research on how herons hunt and when will help you determine what method you think works the best. Keep night lighting off when you go to bed, also they hunt more actively during and three days before and three days after a full moon, they also revisit ponds over and over instinctual GPS system and lastly a heron will wait for hours next to your pond for the fish to come out of hiding and the regurgitate food into the pond drawing fish to the surface where he can grab them knowing this makes some of above methods less effective then others . Stay safe!!!

[@GurrasGarage]

I use a fake swan, it works good so far

[@richj4305]

I just had the Verminator install the de-pelter turbo, It works like a charm.

[@9avedon]

Fishing line is the best. Herons stopped dead. Caught a Fish Hawk that almost drowned. We cut him loose and he was so exhausted ha sat on the lawn for over an hour. The neighbours all came to see the Osprey. It finally flew away........learned its lesson , never came back !

[@Drfuj]

How about using a couple of dog or wolf Halloween masks sticking out of the bushes? They would have to be moved around every few days. Also using a radio set to a talk show.

[@ronroberti8082]

A rifle with a good scope, works every time and the Herron never comes back a second time! 😂

[@mykoiobsession]

One of the best ways to protect your pond from herons, raccoons and even wild mink is an electric fence. My 6000 gallon pond has an 16" raised wall surrounding it and atop the wall is a 3 wire electric fence. The wires are spaced about 1.5" apart with two live wires and a ground so nothing can climb over or through between the wires without a shock. While it may detract from the ascetics of the pond it has protected my fish for years without even a single loss to predators. My largest koi is almost 29" long and 17 years old so the fence is doing its job. I know people who have had their ponds cleaned out by mink while my fish remain happy and safe. Electric fence...simple to install.. costs pennies to run...and protects your fish. The only way to go if you value your fish.

[@mykoiobsession]

I do. How would I send them to you?

[@zwbgzwbg9634]

Here's an 11th Way and never seen suggested here or elsewhere: Near the edges of the pond and on the GROUND afix unevenly strong black nylon pond netting. Ensure the net holes are small and that you secure the netting to the ground. Elsewhere, where you suspect the heron might land or walk afix more netting to the ground. It will not like the effect if the netting catches on it's claws and so will fly away.

[@garmeemith]

I made koi castles out is chicken wire and zip tied plant clippings to the outside to make it cave like. They used them as soon s I put them in the water!!! We have a great blue heron that showed up a week ago and is working its way through the 5 ponds

[@paulgoodwin6697]

i use fishing line around edges along with net over surface .heron still keeps turning up to have a go though.

[@kathrynmoravick9713]

I had a wood duck and 10 ducklings on my 35 ft pond. As I looked out the window a Great Blue Heron attacked them. By the time I got out there and chased him there were 8 ducklings. The mother swam to shore with brood and walked into the woods. I haven’t seen them since. I have many 25 yr old koi that used to produce many young. I’m sure heron is culling them each day since I don’t see any. I’m going to try many of your suggestions Thank you.

[@freebutterfly102]

HomeDepot or Hardware Store Sells Tall Post with Hooks about 3~4 ft Add 4 Corners of Post as tall as you can find. Then add Netting to the 4 corner Post, since Post comes with Hooks it’s easy to place on or off (under $5 a peace) . Place Net on highest Hook on Post high off the Ground so this way it should not be able to reach Fish or Poke Fish. I had my Pond 3 Years now Egret found my Pond, I also keep my original Net low tucked under Rocks too. So my Pond is double Netted. I attach Highest Net attached to Corner Post so he can’t get inside. Since he’s coming around more I’m going to add 3 Rows of Fishing Wire as a invisible Fence (I will attached them and wire them around the 4 Post to prevent Egret from walking too close to my Pond. I love my Fish and it would be torture to see them killed! If you have a Pond you need to protect them!

[@reginataylor4026]

I hung a large mirrored Christmas ornament near my pond after something got one of my Koi. I also strung nylon fish line near the shallow area of my pond and hung jingle bells on the line. So far it seems to be working. I'm going to put a Sheppard's hook with a wind chime there as well. I lost about 10 fish last year and one this year. I am mad 😠😡.....

[@leewiltshire111]

You might be getting rid of the herons this way...! But you might end up with Father Christmas in your pond..!!😉

[@dragonfly6969691]

I tried the fake heron method but that didn't work, I found a really good method was the electric wires that give them a shock when they touch them, only 12 volt but it definitely worked for us. We had about 4 or 5 different herons hunting in our garden, one even swallowed one of our chickens whole! They are horrible creatures

[@alfakilla1]

Shoot him!!!

[@owenwing9134]

Can you make video about best ways to keep a kingfisher out of your pond?

[@kevintango6567]

Net over the pond.

[@donnalewis3671]

We have most of these things in our pond. Sprinkler, floating plants, air balls, 2 doberman, places for the fish to hide, rope round the edge, even a big apple tree hangs over the pond. The heron lands on our decking area near the pond this is 3 times a day. The Sprinkler gose off and he just stands there. We think there are 2 herons. they have also been in the neighbours pond. Our last resort is the netting which we did not want to do but looking like we have no choice at this point. We have lost quite a few fish and frogs due to the heron. Dont get me wrong they are beautiful birds but not in my pond x

[@donnalewis3671]

We also have a fake heron that we move around noting seems to be working

[@niveatomytomy75]

Do it in the Russian way get a air gun and have a real good aim

[@macauleysamualkent2319]

See, i have plants, three dogs, a waterfall to obscure the top, and i still lost all my fish bar one black one, idk what else to do, cos its only second time its happend, dont really wanna net it but i think its only option

[@killer_b7506]

If you use a koi castle/cave koi can hide in there when they are sick or wounded they could die and not be discovered and pollute your pond. Even if you discover the fish is sick or wounded they could hide and avoid capture. Maybe there is one that is removable but you still wouldn't know if something is wrong unless you remove it often.

[@FoisyAquatics]

Very true!

[@awall4458]

I have some old cd's hanging in the bushes and three's around my pond, they blink in the sun moved by the wind. Sofar it worked no Harons.

[@FoisyAquatics]

I've heard this but never tried it. Seems like a cheap (though ugly) solution!

[@awall4458]

Foisy Aquatics maybe ugly but not as ugly as a net with sticks 🤔

[@dav22we84]

Would a bridge (walk way) be enough of a cover from herons??

[@FoisyAquatics]

It would help, but I wouldn't say it's enough

[@southernlight6]

I bought a life size alligator that works to keep herons and egrets out of the pond. Also I grew a wisteria over the pond which obscures their view and this summer we will be putting a lattice work frame over the pond to support the wisteria. It will shade the pond and keep predators from seeing down into the pond. We hang wind chimes out of the Wisteria I live by the ocean so I had a real problem with herons and egrets, etc. I have heard that making a scarecrow can work also as long as you move it around every several days.

[@westonkowert3113]

wisteria is poisonous to fish

[@southernlight6]

@@westonkowert3113 wow, I had no idea, thank you for letting me know.!

[@josephlangham1908]

The dummy heron definitely did not work for me , after attack’s I went off, the morning the heron was standing along side it. The fishing line on stakes around the pond did work. Thank you for posting

[@pikmak920]

Exactly the same thing happened to me some years back. Went out in the morning and saw two herons. Couldn't even see which was the real one till I got closer.

[@SammyZak42]

Fishing line didn't work for me...they just stepped over it and under. They can figure just about anything out. Electric fence is next for me.

[@pbear6251]

you should be moving the decoys so they are not in the same place every day

[@ironmanct]

Can you add the link to the floating pond nets?

[@FoisyAquatics]

www.thepondoutlet.com/nycon-floating-fish-barrier

[@youngstadan4999]

I have to have a net on mine , I hate tbe net I've built my bond very straight sides 5ft deep, the shallow bits 2 n half foot. The we have 2 layers of sleepers , so they have to stand on thr sleepers and its quite far to the water never mind to step over

[@philgc11111]

High Plants like iris and air bubbles keep them away for me.

[@bobhaugland9822]

Forgot one that's very effective. Cover as much of the pond as you can with an awning, sail shade, shade cloth, etc. Predatory birds won't go under the awning because there is no easy escape route.

[@FoisyAquatics]

Great tip!

[@tyler.redpath]

Good video bro

[@KoiMan61]

Watched a GBH fly off with one of my fav koi (Skelly) last summer. He got him while hunting from the side, cause my pond edge is too deep (3 to 4'). The Blue Heron decoy didn't work, obviously. I now have an ugly net covering all.A motion activated talk radio station may be the ultimate - better than a sprinkler.

[@stevenreeves4766]

you forgot the shotgun method! what I have found the most effective is to build a cover over the whole pond that is about 12 feet tall and cover it with shade cloth. I like the green kind. the herons cannot see you fish in the pond from the air and therefore they do not even know it is there. this does not work for all predators such as racoons but it is very effective against herons. of course it is not cheap to install either.

[@unclegeorge7845]

Are herons protected?

[@AmandaJuneLL]

Yes, under the migratory bird act.

[@unclegeorge7845]

@@AmandaJuneLL I didn't know they migrated?

[@AmandaJuneLL]

@@unclegeorge7845 bird species don't necessarily need to be migratory in the way folks traditionally think of that. A summary and bird species list is provided here: www.fws.gov/birds/policies-and-regulations/laws-legislations/migratory-bird-treaty-act.php

[@unclegeorge7845]

@@AmandaJuneLL Thanks for the link but I couldn't find Heron on the updated list.

[@AmandaJuneLL]

@@unclegeorge7845 the updated list (2020) does not change the previous species covered unless specifically mentioned as being deleted or changed. So, for the Great Blue Heron- Ardea Herodias, it was listed on the previous list, and remains so. (Still protected) I worked for the US Navy as a Natural Resources Specialist and we legally had to protect blue herons on our property. Go Navy!

[@MrWezzawooda]

i find the floating gun method the best

[@portcullis5622]

Rather than a plastic heron, a few realistic plastic fish below the surface should confuse them and slow them down a bit!

[@JohnV149]

What about pond dye?

[@FoisyAquatics]

You would likely need to dye the pond to the point that the herons couldn't see in it, and at that point, you wouldn't be able to either! Doesn't sound worth it.

[@christophercorriher3145]

My dog (60lb Aussie) lost an eye to a Blue Heron that was stalking the ponds in our backyard. Always thought the bird would just fly away when it saw her. Our heron was just an asshole. If you have a asshole heron I would keep your doggo away.

[@kevintango6567]

Thanks, how do you identify an asshole heron?

[@gundisaluusmenendiz]

I made the ultimate heron deterrent, now instead of the heron fishing in my pond, I now watch the bastard trying to figure out how to get my Koi until he has enough and leaves, it's great watching the bastard so close to my Koi and can't get them... lol

[@dubya724]

What is the deterrent?

[@bingo01bingo]

??

[@robbieglessman9691]

#4 my decoy was attacked by the heron LOL

[@melt9863]

I just saw a huge blue heron sitting on my fence and when I opened my backyard door it flew away. I have a fake heron by my pond and it’s tiny in comparison in size !!!

[@deformedturtle25]

Method 1: A simple double barrel

[@M3dicayne]

Used a legal gun in Germany. A Weihrauch HW 97k. Silent, fast, easy. Works.

[@darebear6587]

I have had koi for YEARS. Once they have discovered a pond. They WILL keep coming back. Netting works but if they can poke them but cant get then through the net . They will die. Using a sprinkler while it might make some pest leave most birds enjoy the free shower lol I use fishing line and cd's the color of the cd's keeps them away and the fishing line keeps them away from the pond. I have tried MANY different methods. This is the only thing I can get to work. Other than shooting them witch is illegal. I don't suggest that method . I believe that comes with LOTS of trouble, fines, and jail time. My fish are precious. But so is staying on the outside lol

[@pikmak920]

Bang Bang dig dig = safe fish & no legal repercussions.

[@SammyZak42]

Fishing line didn't work for me in the end. Initially yes...then they learned to maneuver around and under. Electric fence is next for me. Had one heron on video eating my fish for 3 hours at 1am to 4am!

[@tyler.redpath]

Would a water feature keep herons away?

[@FoisyAquatics]

It might if it was a good deal of water moving, and on some sort of timer turning on and off often. But otherwise, I doubt it. I've seen plenty of herons hunting next to strong waterfalls

[@tyler.redpath]

Foisy could I put chicken wire over the top of the pond

[@FoisyAquatics]

Definitely

[@darebear6587]

It will help to keep it from seeing your fish. Pond plants or plants that keep the bird from accessing your pond. Most pond plants die come winter

[@flamesofvenus]

Foisy be careful using chicken wire or galvanized wire as it can leach into the pond water.

[@henningvanniekerk4026]

I have netting but I can't see my fish

[@jamestetreault7675]

10 gauge works really good, never have a return visitor.

[@michaelhooper3405]

I have just added a Ring floodlight camera. One doesn’t like the siren and another hates my voice on the speaker.

[@JoeyJig]

Does the sensor pick up the blue heron? I turned up the sensitivity to maximum but it doesn’t pick up the bird.

[@michaelhooper3405]

Joe Scaturro yes no problem, picks up small birds, squirrels etc. Even picks up the fish in the pond if I didn’t get the motion zones set up to avoid the water. Have you set up the motion zones?

[@JoeyJig]

Michael Hooper, thank you for responding. The app shows 3 motion zones, but unlike my Ring Pro doorbell, they don’t move or expand when using the app on my iPad. I can only add privacy zones.

[@michaelhooper3405]

Joe Scaturro if you go into motion settings and then motion zones you should get a button across the middle saying ‘Customise motion zones.’ Also you should be able to adjust sensitivity, unselect people only and ensure you don’t have motion schedule pausing the detection. Good luck

[@stephenwilliamson6118]

I use a picket fence with an electric fence on top and across the pond 👍🏻