Feeding Koi and other pond fish in winter

Omega_1

In view of the exceptionally warm winter so far up until the frosts I have been feeding them months past normal ceasing feeding date but whilst the water temperature is currently below 10Deg C (50f) they are all coming up for feed when approaching the pond. Threw a few dried Mealworms in for a reaction to them and were gobbled up in a frenzy. Is it safe to feed these during the winter when 'normal' feed has been suspended ?
Coarse fishermen use maggots and worms for fishing throughout the winter so the carp and other breeds are obviously eating these things so I ask why not the above ?

no1catman

While they may be up for it, it doesn't mean their bodies can cope! That is, perhaps even with fish - 'eyes bigger than their stomach'!
Ten degrees is as to the best of my knowledge the critical temperature that it should be above, before feeding, and that's water temperature not air temperature.
Though, I appreciate tempting to give them something before the temperature drops - if so aim for mid-afternoon when it's as warm as it could be.


The other consideration, is maintenance, was given the okay not to do any more monthly clean of the pond pump - because they won't be feed much now. I've cleaned the filter since when the flow was getting low - but water cold, and ground sodden!

Omega_1

Thanks. I turned off my UV, aerator and filter a few weeks ago when became sluggish and feeding was of little interest. - my spasmodic feeding were relatively small quantities. I will cease now until spring when water warms up again.