How To Deter Herons From Your Pond

Herons are designed by Mother Nature to hunt fish. And unfortunately for pond owners, they often find pond fish to be an easy meal. So in order to protect your fish, you will want to know how to deter herons from your pond.

Alligator Decoys

Alligators are natural predators of herons. And therefore one of the most efficient ways to deter herons from your pond is by using an alligator decoy. These decoys float around the pond with the current of the water which makes them seem as if they are swimming. And when passing herons see what they think is a gator in the pond below they won’t want to land for fear of being eaten.

Netting

Pond netting can provide a physical barrier against herons. However, you will need to make sure that the net is totally secure and taught over the surface of your pond. Herons have narrow beaks and long necks. So to prevent them from being able to get through the net and snatching fish the mesh will need to be smaller than one inch.

Hide It From Above

To help prevent herons from spotting your pond from above, you can place an outdoor structure with a roof over it such as a patio enclosure. A roof will also provide shade for the fish. Because patio enclosures are screened in they will also be able to physically keep herons and other pond pests out as well. And this includes biting insects like mosquitoes too. A shade sail or shade cloth can also help to keep a pond hidden from above too.

Use A Radio

Herons actively try to avoid humans. And while standing watch over your pond is not an option, often placing a radio near it is. The sound of voices on the radio will help keep herons out of your pond by making them think there are people nearby. While this isn’t a permanent solution it can often be a good idea to use a radio while you are in the process of purchasing or setting up another alternative.

Increase The Water Level

When herons hunt for fish they may stand on the water’s edge or wade in the water. Typically they prefer to wade in water that’s around twenty inches or less. Therefore having a deeper pond can help make catching fish more difficult. This can be achieved by filling your pond up to the highest water level possible.

Plant Around The Pond

By adding tall plants around the perimeter of your pond you can make it harder for herons to land and also hunt around the edges. Plants can also provide hiding spaces for fish. Herons are wary birds and prefer open spaces so they can easily detect danger. A heavily planted perimeter that doesn’t offer much visibility can deter herons from your pond by making these wary birds hesitant to land in the first place.

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