It has a small waterfall. It is necessary for water filtration and oxygenation. Especially, if the pond is crowded with many fish.
Of course, the star was
I supose it is a gartner snake: Snake Western Ribbon - Thamnophis proximus ssp.orarius. But I am not very sure.
I feel obliged to note again: Remember, real snakes are wild animals. In any case they are not toys. Nor decorations. Some are very dangerous. Maybe some are not. But do not take the risk. Keep your distance and don't try to play you with them!
I just visited So. TX Botanical Gardens for the first time last week. It was beautiful. The pond did not look anything like the pictures, no plants, smaller fish, even but beautiful just the same. I want to retire there and when I do, I will volunteer my time at the The Gardens. I loved it!
Life is short, Break the rules, Forgive quickly, Kiss slowly, Love Truly, Laugh
uncontrollably, And never regret anything that made you Smile.