| Child Proof your Koi Skimmer
I agree with Russ, we have had problems with the No Niche as well as the Savio Skimmer. When we completed our new pond last spring, the kids (Koi) were very interested in the skimmers even though they were well fed and we turn the skimmers off during feedings. Three koi got into the skimmer, one was injured similar to the Chagoi. An idea that was given to me by Bill at Mystic Koi was to use the egg crate lighting covers for fluorescent lights. Cut out a piece that will fit into the opening covering the edges with rubberized tape. I added some zip ties to keep the tape in place with the sharp ends tucked in so the inmates cannot cut themselves ( See Image). It is important to cover the insert edges as they are sharp. The unit is held in place with a rubber tie down clipped to the basket inside. The flat egg crate surface is smooth so the fish cannot injure themselves Needles and waste will flow into skimmer with out any trouble. The big leaves need to be scooped out daily, but we cover the pond in the winter so that is not an issue.
Sorry about your Chagoi, we hope she heals.
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