We dug a fish pond in the yard in August. Just a small one - about 4’ x 7’. We stocked it with a few water lilies, some submerged plants, and a couple of snails and pond shubunkin fish. It was so pretty, with lily pads and water lily blooms. A few local frogs even moved in to complete the picture.
About a week ago, we came out and found the lily pots disturbed and most of the lily pads eaten. This has been going on almost every night since then. We figured it was raccoons. Nope. About an hour ago I looked out, and there was a black bear lounging in the pond, eating the plants. He or she was just sitting there munching, totally relaxed, like someone lounging in a hot tub. I couldn’t decide whether to be mad or laugh. It was totally annoying but totally cute at the same time.
No fish or snails were harmed, but the aquatic plants have taken a beating.