Koi Vanish in Winter: Predators, Not Cold, in Richmond VA

8x12x3 ft above-ground pond, 27 koi (8-12"), 2 catfish (24-30"). Iced over, pumps off. Spring: no fish, no response to food. Owner fears cold kill or catfish predation.

Assessment

• Koi survive VA winters in 3 ft depth if aerated.
• Catfish are opportunistic predators; 24-30" catfish eat 12" koi.
• No bodies = predation (herons, raccoons, cats, catfish).
• Decomposition in 2 months? Unlikely—bones/scales remain.

Likely Scenario

Winter predators (herons, mammals) accessed iced pond. Catfish may have scavenged. Turn pumps on earlier next year; add aeration and netting.