Striking Gold

Though the photo is less than ideal, the subject is astonishing.  Recall a month ago when I mentioned that I had stocked the koi pond with Shubunkin goldfish last year.  Also recall that I believed they were all lost to predation by Great Blue Herons.  This weekend spring finally arrived on South Fidalgo with the first sunny 70° weather since early last September.  It was perfect to do some gardening.

I was staring at the pond contemplating what to do about all the algae that grew over the winter.  Lo and behold, big as life, there were baby fish leisurely swimming around.  They are only about 1.5 in/3.8 cm long, smaller than the ones I bought last year.  This can only mean they are the offspring of some of the original stock.  A few must have survived the herons.  While I think there are about a dozen babies, I still have not spotted the parents.  They may have been so traumatized, they will never come out in the open.  Since last fall, I have done nothing to feed or take care of these fish.  They have survived totally on their own.  For now, I think it would be best to leave the algae alone.  It provides both food and cover for the fish and I don't want to do anything to jeopardize their survival.

Regular goldfish babies are silvery brown for several months after they are born.  Apparently, Shubunkins acquire their colors earlier.  What a great surprise this is.  They had a good meal today, fish meal and wheat germ; breakfast of champions.