Jumping seems the most likely option. In wild ponds, fish often roll
down into the water when they flop on land. In our ponds, they don't.

Too bad to have such a loss.

Jim

Spike wrote:
Hi there Im new here and looking for some input.

I have owned fish for a few years (cold water in a tank) and have
recently had the garden landscaped with decking and a sunken pond. We
also had a big Pergola built over the top for cover. After cycling the
pond - I have now been able to stock my pond. The pond's water level is
in line with the decking boards. I have my Koi (2 small metallic) some
gold fish, a small albino sturgeon, a small sterlet and as of last
weekend, Spike - my Stellatis Sturgeon - about 14". Spike I waited for
- until everything was totally pucker with the pond.

This morning I came down at 6:30 to a nightmare :-( Spike was lying in
the middle of the grassed lawn - some way from the decking/pond. He was
still breathing and no "visible" marks. To cut a long story short - he
didnt make it although I tried my best - floating him around the pond,
- he responded initially but I had no idea how long he had been out of
the water - or why !

Tonight I have put a "crass" net over the entire pond in case we have
any more predators. Now I am trying to work out what the options are
for what happened. I d appreciate any thoughts.

a) |He jumped out of the pond - doubtful but I suppose possible

b) A Heron - although I think it would have taken off with the fish, it
would have had marks ???? or there would have been more fatalities??

c) CAT ! My partner thinks this but I am not sure. He would certainly
be easy prey since Sturgeon do come around the surface in darkness and
he would have been easy to swoop !

Any ideas guys ? And also any advice on "custom made" nets/fitments
and where I can source one.

Many thanks

Simon