How to Get Rid of Pool Frogs, Ducks, & Other PestsUpdated a month ago
Frogs, insects, and other critters love pools as much as we do—but they can clog filters, spread bacteria, and disrupt your swim. Here’s how to evict them humanely and keep your pool pest-free.
1. Frogs (Cane Toads, Green Tree Frogs, etc.)
Why They’re a Problem:
Cane toads are toxic (risk to pets/kids).
Frogs lay eggs in pools, leading to tadpole infestations.
How to Remove Them:
Install a frog log or escape ramp: Helps trapped frogs climb out.
Use a pool cover: Blocks access at night (when they’re most active).
Deter with salt or vinegar: Lightly spray around the pool edge (not in the water).
Relocate humanely: Wear gloves (cane toads secrete poison) and move frogs to a nearby pond.
Prevention:
Trim overhanging branches (frogs climb in from trees).
Turn off pool lights at night (attracts insects, which attract frogs).
2. Insects (Mosquitoes, Backswimmers, Beetles)
Why They’re a Problem:
Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water.
Backswimmers bite (ouch!).
How to Remove Them:
Skim daily: Use a fine mesh net for tiny bugs.
Add a surface agitator (creative pool jet positioning) or add waterfalls: Waves deter egg-laying mosquitoes.
Use a pool-safe insecticide: E.g., pyrethrin-based sprays (avoid direct pool application).
Prevention:
Keep chlorine at 1–3 ppm (mosquitoes hate it).
Remove standing water (buckets, gutters) near the pool.
3. Birds (Ducks, Ibises, Cockatoos)
Why They’re a Problem:
Droppings contaminate water.
Ibises (“bin chickens”) scavenge and leave debris.
How to Deter Them:
Pool cover or shade sail: Blocks landing spots.
Fake predators: Owl decoys or reflective tape.
Motion-activated sprinklers: Scares off persistent birds.
4. Snakes (Tree Snakes, Brown Snakes)
Why They’re a Problem:
Some species are venomous (e.g., brown snakes).
Attracted by frogs or rodents.
How to Deter Them:
Keep grass short: Eliminates hiding spots.
Seal gaps: In fences, sheds, or pool equipment.
Use snake repellent granules: Around the pool perimeter.
If You Spot a Snake:
Stay back and call a licensed snake catcher (don’t attempt removal yourself!).
5. Rodents (Rats, Possums)
Why They’re a Problem:
Chew pool covers or wiring.
Contaminate water with droppings.
How to Deter Them:
Secure trash bins: Use locking lids.
Trim branches: Stops possums accessing the pool area.
Ultrasonic repellents: Emit high-frequency sounds (safe for pets).
General Aussie Pest-Proofing Tips
Cover the pool: When not in use (best prevention).
Install fencing: Keeps out larger animals (and complies with safety laws).
Use a robotic cleaner: Disturbs water, deterring egg-laying pests.
Natural repellents: Plant citronella or eucalyptus near the pool.
When to Call a Pro
Snake or cane toad infestations.
Persistent bird/rodent problems requiring trapping.
Electrical pest deterrent installations.