The ripple doesn't, in itself, assure that it's a fish. However, the otter is a carnivore that eats fish, frogs and other wildlife. I know very little about frogs. If you have small frogs I would assume that the weather is now warm enough for insects in the water. Look for them.

A duck might have just stopped by so it would be hard to say. The duck, if it like most US ducks, will mostly be a herbivore. During the Spring, ducks usually come in pairs so you might just have a goofy duck. If you have plants, it might be a good sign of healthy water. However, polluted water abounds with algae and other noxious plant life.

Ask the government people to explain their findings to you. I find that it is best for me to ask scientific types to explain their findings to me on the stupid level.

I would prefer to have some idea of what the water hole is like during the summer. It would really help to find someone with year around knowledge of the pond.

BTW, what is your weather like at this time?

Last edited by Dave Davidson1; 03/20/12 02:37 PM.
It's not about the fish. It's about the pond. Take care of the pond and the fish will be fine. PB subscriber since before it was in color.

Without a sense of urgency, Nothing ever gets done.

Boy, if I say "sic em", you'd better look for something to bite. Sam Shelley Rancher and Farmer Muleshoe Texas 1892-1985 RIP Grandpa