During the winter your fish will hibernate. They will appear inactive and huddled near the bottom of the pond where the water is at it's warmest.

FEEDING:
You should have stopped feeding your fish by now due to their hibernation.

ICE:
You may find your pond freezes over often now. This is not a problem if you have taken the relevant precautions (see the advice on our December page).

Remember, NEVER crack the ice that forms on the pond surface as the shockwaves that travel through the water could potentially kill your fish. Simply pour some luke warm water into the central area of your pond (thinnest ice).

PUMPING & FILTRATION:
If you are still using your pond pump and filter, it should only be for a few hours a day, and your pump needs to have been raised to the top third area of the ponds' water. This enables the lower levels to remain still, warmer and thus beneficial to your fish. See the advice  on our November page

PLANTS:
You should already have removed all dead plant life from the pond. Should any remain in the pond, leave it and remove in the Spring when the water is warmer and the fish are more active. Remember, your fish are hibernating and working in your pond could be harmful to their health.