How Do Fish Get Into Ponds?

A stranger stopped by today and asked if he could fish in our ponds. Sure, no problem. I thought it was nice that he asked. Later in the day, I walked down to the ponds to see if I could spot any fish. I'm curious as to what type we might have. I doubt that the shallow pond has any fish, but we enjoy watching the ducks swim among the cattails. The big pond has carp in it according to the previous owner, but I'm wondering how fish get into the pond in the first place?

Do people actually buy fish and stock small ponds? I know this is possible, but where does one buy live fish? If they are tiny, will they survive? Does the pond have to be deep enough so that when it freezes in the winter, there is enough water to stay alive -- that rules out the small pond. What kind of fish should I buy?

And finally, the otter in the pond scared the beegeebies out of me this morning. I saw a small head swimming across the lake with a long trail behind it and thought it was a snake. A really BIG snake! Then it did a flip and I realized it was an otter. I don't like snakes. Haven't formed an opinion on otters yet. Wonder if that little guy will become a problem.

Probably eats fish.

We woke up to a beautiful sight this morning as the fog rolled into the river valley and the sun highlighted the tops of the trees. It was amazing to see and I grabbed my camera to take pictures. It was so peaceful until the fog crept closer and closer to us, closing off the view. God is indeed an artist.

Country Kritters vs. City Kritters

What is up with birds flying into the window and killing themselves? This house has been here about five years, so it isn't like it is a surprise to them, and yet I have four dead birds laying on the patio after colliding with the picture window. Dolly just growls now when a bird hits the window.

I have also noticed that the squirrels in the city and acrobats and can figure out how to get into a bird feeder no matter what steps you take. So far, the country squirrels haven't figured out how to get to the seed. Not that I'm complaining!

I am going to have to start carrying a camera on me. As we walked the mile long drive, Dolly spotted a frog in the grass. She ran over and pounced trying to catch it time after time. Picture her putting her paws together and diving into the grass. I laughed so hard. She is loving the country, but she still isn't sure what to make of the wild turkeys.