Leaping Goldfish

[Oleanda]

We have several goldfish in a pond in the garden. They have been there about 6 years, but just this last week one of them (at least I think it is the same one each time) has been leaping out of the water a couple of times a day. Anyone know why this should be?

[podger123]

Lack of oxygen in water?
A predator like dragonfly larva or a beetle (I've forgotten the name) attacking?

[paddywak]

I think they just jump for the hell of it especially if it's nice and sunny, tho as podger says if there is some thing near the surface of the water fish will jump for it. Lack of oxygen shouldn't be a problem especially if you've a fountain or cascade in the pond

[hammerman]

There are several reason why carp and goldfish jump

1) poor water quality...ammonia will burn their gills and cause fish to "flash" against the bottom and sides of the pond....as well as jump out in order to relieve the burning.

2) parasites...as above, a parasite gets into the gills and irritates the fish, they will try to scratch it.

3) Because they can !!!! it has been long recognised that wild carp will often jump because they enjoy doing it.

Hope that helps a bit.

[Oleanda]

Thanks all. We have a waterfall so shouldn't be lack of oxygen, and all the others seem happy enough, so we will just have to keep an eye on it.

[SlackAlice]

It's a bit late in the year, but you might find the fish in question is a female. Being chased by a male they sometimes jump out of the water during breeding

[Rock.Chick]

Our house goldfish did that. We couldnt understand why the tank was empty and i just happened to pick up a cassette lying on the desk underneath and there was goldie!

Strange creatures.
Main reason? As they said, lack of oxygen, being chased, just cause they can :)

[terambulan]

Mine jumped on my credit card.

Seriously, I've had goldfish for over 10y and never had them jump out of the tank.

[abstract]

someone dropped an lsd tab in the water and the fish thought he was a bird and tried to fly out the pond?