Goldfish are missing

Question
Two days ago I found the tails of 2 fish at the bottom of my garden pond. Today I checked and the rest of the fish are gone (6 fish). I have never seen a heron about but have seen sea gulls. The pond is only about 2 feet deep and 5 foot by 2.5 feet in size but is pre-formed with steep sides so I do not think that a wading bird could stalk the fish. What is the most likely culprit as the fish lived quite happily for several months and have all disapeared in 2 days. Also what advice can you give to prevent further carnage.

Answer
I'm sorry that you lost your fish.  I could have been sea gulls or herons or many other predators such as raccoons, cats (not as likely), etc.  Herons can easily stand in 2 feet of water to fish.  I've seen it in my own pond which is why it's netted all the time.  Most birds swallow fish whole and don't leave body parts.  So, perhaps it was a raccoon.  I think maybe though a heron is likely as they are best at wiping out an entire pond is short order.  Check out my site for more on predators.

Robyn
fishpondinfo.com