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6 Ways to Keep Ducks Out of a Pool
May 30, 2024
-
By
John Harrington
Ducks might be cute but they’re not exactly the type of guests you want in your backyard pool. What’s the best way to keep them out?
How can you discourage ducks and other birds from coming into your swimming pool?
For the answers, be sure to keep reading. We’ll be going over the answers in detail below!
The Importance of Keeping Ducks Away from Your Pool
Ducks can turn your swimming pool into a hotbed for germs. For one thing, they usually carry parasites.
Not only that but their droppings are also a cocktail of germs like E. coli, Salmonella, and the tough-to-kill Cryptosporidium, which can hang around in chlorinated water.
Preventing Ducks From Entering Your Pool
Using Pool Covers to Deter Ducks
Pool covers will not only protect your swimming pool from ducks but will also prevent leaves and other debris from entering your pool.
The same goes for hot tubs – you can use a solar cover to prevent most birds from turning them into their home.
Using Motion-Activated Sprinklers
These sprinklers can come in handy if you’re trying to stop ducks from entering your pool.
If they come too close, they will release a sudden spray of water that will send them waddling away. Installation is also a breeze.
Using Inflatable Pool Toys
Sometimes, the best offense is a good defense, and what’s more defensive than a floating alligator or shark in your swimming pool?
These inflatable pool toys might just trick ducks into thinking they’re about to become someone’s lunch. Keep in mind, however, that ducks aren’t completely gullible.
Over time, they may realize these predators are all bark and no bite.
Using Lifelike Owl Decoys
Owl decoys will fool ducks into believing that a predator is near.
It’s a win-win: you get to enjoy a duck-free pool, and the ducks get to fly away unharmed.
Plus, they’re a breeze to set up and can even help reduce the wildlife traffic in your backyard, especially if you have fruit bearing trees.
Using Ultrasonic Bird Repellent Devices
These devices are designed to emit high-frequency sounds that will ruffle feathers while leaving human ears in peace.
Many also come with the ability to target specific birds, which makes them a high-tech solution.
Employing Canine Assistance
Dogs, with their protective instincts, can be quite effective at keeping ducks at bay. Just make sure your canine companion is well-trained to scare without harm.
Maintaining a Clean and Uninviting Pool Area
Sometimes, the best way to prevent ducks from entering your pool is to make it as un-duck-like as possible. Here are some steps you can take.
Step 1: Maintain the Pool
Clean the pool once or twice a week using a skimmer or automatic pool cleaner. You also want to keep your filter clean. Don’t hesitate to replace it if necessary.
Step 2: Test the Water
Test the pool water every two weeks using a test kit. Remember, you want to maintain proper water chemistry with appropriate chlorine and pH levels.
Step 3: Use Physical Barriers
Use a pool cover when the pool is not in use. You can also install pool fencing to stop the ducks from accessing the pool.
Supply:
- Automatic pool cleaner
- Pool skimmer
- Water chemistry test kit
- Pool cover
- Pool fencing (optional)
Strategic Landscaping Techniques
Let’s not forget the power of strategic landscaping. Here are some things you can do to deter ducks from swimming in your pool.
Supplies:
- Trees or shrubs
- Bird netting
Step 1:
Plant tall trees and shrubs that will block the ducks’ view of your pool; that will make them less inclined to land.
Step 2:
Create a barrier around your pool using bird netting. Avoid water features that resemble ducks’ natural habitat.
Using a Duck Repellent
Duck repellents are designed to make the water’s surface less hospitable for ducks.
Supplies:
- Duck repellent
Step 1:
Measure out the liquid repellent, according to the product instructions, and add it directly to the pool water.
Repeat every day or as needed to prevent ducks from returning to the pool.
Step 2:
For the best results, re-apply the repellent after pool water changes or heavy rainfall.
Key Takeaways
- Ducks can pose serious health risks due to the presence of parasites in their droppings
- Sprinklers with a motion sensor, pool covers, and lifelike decoys can be used to discourage ducks from making your pool their hangout
- Maintain an unattractive habitat by keeping up with your pool maintenance
- You can make your pool less inviting to ducks by adjusting the landscape and using a liquid repellent
How to Keep Ducks Out of a Pool – FAQs
What’s the best way to prevent ducks from entering swimming pools?
You can install motion-activated sprinklers on your pool deck to deter ducks. It also helps to keep the pool clean and well maintained.
What should you do if there are ducks swimming in your pool?
If ducks are in your pool, consider raising the water level, building a ramp, or using nets to help them get out safely.
Can duck droppings make people sick if they swim in a contaminated pool?
Yes, duck droppings can carry harmful germs like E. coli and Salmonella, both of which can make you sick.
Will a pool cover prevent all types of birds from landing in my pool?
Yes, a pool cover, especially a tightly stretched out one, can make it difficult for birds, including ducks, to land in your pool.
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John Harrington
John Harrington, with over 20 years of experience in pool and spa maintenance, generously shares his expertise on the ACTIVE blog. His in-depth knowledge and practical advice provide invaluable guidance for maintaining pristine pools and hot tubs. John's insights help enthusiasts and homeowners ensure their aquatic havens are always in top condition.
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