If your pond and area around the pond is protected against predators they will nest in them safely.

When I had them years ago we provided 2' x 2' x 2' box (with hinged lid for easy checking and cleaning) 1/2 filled with grass clippings or what ever we had. It had a 1' round hole and was on a 3' tall post. A 2" x 4" x 5' was mounted on the bottom of the nest box sticking out about 3' in front of the hole. They could fly up to the perch and get into the nest box keeping them safe from skunks, 'possums and such. The Male usually roosted just outside of the opening like a guard a night.

That sounds like a nice setup. I think I'll build one of those also. Gives them an option.

My orchard is enclosed with a 7ft deer fence and I have two Black Labs that patrol. Have not had much in the way of predators in years.

Thanks
Eric