One of the perks of keeping a backyard pond is the enjoyment derived from observing wildlife that come to sip a drink, play or take up residence. Butterflies, iridescent winged dragonflies, frogs, various species of birds, turtles, perhaps even deer and other creatures visit backyard ponds. Even the smallest of water gardens can evolve into a wonderful wildlife habitat. However, sometimes ill-mannered visitors come and don’t leave without first creating a mess or snatching fish.

Raccoons, cute as they can be, are notorious for creating a ruckus, knocking over potted water plants while fishing, and herons on their stilt like legs treat backyard ponds like an all-you-can eat buffet.

The visitors are just curious about the diner in town, but the pond keeper is of course interested in protecting what has taken much work and patience and perhaps a great deal of money invested in plants or koi.

Some say that one solution is to build the pond on a patio or deck, but this isn’t much of a deterrent for wildlife high on the food chain – unless you screen in your porch or deck, but in doing so you will also be locking out guests that you welcome. The same holds true for netting your pond, unless you use a loosely woven net or large holed screen or fencing that allows small animals such as frogs easy entrance. The problem with this solution is that it detracts from the natural beauty of the pond.

One way around this would be to make a living fence with something like chain link covered with growing vines, such as you would for a secluded garden.

If the vines have flowers, then all the better for attracting hummingbirds and butterflies who along with songbirds can sip from bird baths outside the living fence. The netting on the top wouldn’t be noticeable when enjoying the pond, although it would be from a distance. Still, many pond keepers use this.

If you live in bear or cougar country, an added advantage to the enclosure is that it may convince these animals to look for an easier to reach drinking hole or in the bear’s case, a better bathing tub. Call your local wildlife authority if you need help deterring an animal that poses a threat to you and your family or your pets. On this note, if you have raccoons visiting, keep Rover inside at night for his own protection.

When critters such as bears and cougars aren’t an issue, a good alternative is to relocate some of you water garden inhabitants. For example, koi or expensive water plants might be moved to a pond on a screened in porch, while fish like mosquito fish that produce quickly may be left in the backyard pond as part of the natural eco system.

Finally, another solution is to plan for visitors when you build your pond. Create a larger and deeper pond with ledges where fish can hide under. This has been proven in many a yard where raccoons hang out. Plants also provide hiding spots for fish as do pots and pipes (just be sure the latter items are large enough the fish don’t get stuck).

With a few precautions, a backyard pond will provide a place to unwind and enjoy nature and the magical beauty of your water garden.