The Pond Guy's Blog

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Do Snails Need To Be Acclimated When Being Added To My Pond? | Decorative
Ponds & Water Gardens Q & A

Posted: 20 Apr 2012 04:22 PM PDT
http://blog.thepondguy.com/2012/04/2...r-gardens-q-a/


Do Snails Need To Be Acclimated When Being Added To My Pond?

Bonnie Fallston, MD

Like fish, snails also need to be acclimated to a pond. It may seem strange
since the anatomy of a fish and snail are so different, but snails like the
Japanese Trapdoor are also susceptible to shock from early-season chilly
waters if they are not acclimated. However, these snails are best for pond
life because they are live bearing and don’t reproduce as quickly.

Acclimating snails is the same process as acclimating fish to new pond
water. Upon arrival, leave the snails in the bag and float it in the pond
for 10 to 15 minutes. Once you have floated the bag you will want to remove
the snails from the most newspaper and place them in the pond. By then they
should be acclimated to the temperature and be fine.





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When Should I Put My Heron Decoy Out? | Ponds & Lakes Q&A

Posted: 20 Apr 2012 03:55 PM PDT
http://blog.thepondguy.com/2012/04/2...onds-lakes-qa/




When Should I Put My Heron Decoy Out?

Michael Brenham, TX

Pond owners everywhere use Heron Decoys to protect their fish from becoming
a quick meal. While using heron decoys can be a very useful tool for
keeping herons at bay, knowing when to actually place them pond-side makes
the difference between deterring a predator and attracting unwanted
attention.

In the northern hemisphere the heron mating season generally lasts from
April to May but can sometimes extend into early June. If used too early,
your decoy will actually attract a heron or two as they will be searching
for potential mates. Use your decoy at the end of the mating season to give
herons the impression that your pond is already claimed. Since herons are
territorial they will try to find a pond of their own and move on.

Placement is also important to consider when using the decoy. Herons are
smart and patient animals and may investigate your decoy if they find it
suspicious. For best results place your decoy at the edge of the pond and
move it daily. Make sure the decoy is standing upright and not in any
unnatural poses.