A pool always involves the risk of drawing undesirable guests, such as insects or wild animals.

Facing critters in your swimming pool is anything but a nice experience. Unfortunately, in most cases the evidence is manifested in a carcass floating in the water. The reason is that animals usually find it way easier to get into a pool than out of it.

Luckily, there are lots of ways for protecting your pool from any animals. Some of them can only be applied to new installations, but the rest is perfectly compatible with existing pools.

What types of animals end up in pools?

Almost all sorts of animals are drawn by water, and it doesn’t matter to them whether if it’s full of chlorine or encircled with a concrete pool deck. Below you can find some of the most popular scenarios where animals become a serious issue for pool owners:

• Frogs eagerly jump into the pools, and then drown since they’re unable to climb back onto the pool deck.
• In hot areas, it’s quite common for crocodiles to lurk near the pools, frightening both people and insects.
• Ducks are also “fond of” pools, and they don’t hesitate to poop in the water.
• Other animals, such as rabbits, squirrels, etc. can get into a pool accidentally– particularly if they get scared.

In addition to wild animals, there’s always the risk of stray animals entering your pool area. Therefore, you should provide the appropriate protection of your pool.

Ways to protect from the beasts

The optimal solution to the above-mentioned problem depends on the specific challenge, your pool structure, and what sum you’re ready to spend. Below you can find a few of the most efficient alternatives:

Barriers

Fences and the rest of enclosures are an excellent first defense line, and the pool safety regulations in your region may oblige you to have one in the first place. A pool cover or netting provides extra protection against birds and little animals. But ensure that the cover won’t let the animals sneak under or fall through – as can make things even worse.

Built-in functions

If you’re going to build a new pool or upgrade an old one, your choice of functions can prevent lots of problems with the animals. A beach entry provides the perfect protection from animals; however, if you can’t afford it, choose the critter-friendly steps and ledges. An automated pool cover, although costly, makes it very easy to keep the pool blocked when it’s not used.

Skamper ramps

A skamper ramp hangs from the edge of the pool deck and into the water, providing an emergency exit for the animals that fell into the pool by accident. This is an ideal choice for swimmers who have dogs that enjoy swimming. Nevertheless, skamper ramps are actually intended for small animals.

Fear tactics

The thought of using baits to frighten animals (especially birds) has existed forever. Over time, the old-school bogey has converted into realistic simulations of natural predators, such as owls and alligators. Although decoys constantly receive mixed feedback, they can be efficient in the appropriate situation.

Easy steps

While considering the options for protecting your poo animals, don’t ignore the obvious. Cover the food around the pool area. Think about moving any close birdhouses that can draw rodents. Prevent the trees and bushes from overgrowing.

Fighting birds and animals is an issue the pool owner could not have foreseen. The above-mentioned ideas aren’t may not solve every single wildlife issue, but they’re a great starting point.