National Parks/ Sanctuaries
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Common Names
european eel
Regions
AlbaniaAustriaBelgium
Population
5,000
Habitat
Freshwater habitats across Europe, the European eel undergoes extensive migrations between freshwater and the Sargasso Sea for spawning.
Weight(in lbs) and Life Span
1 to 6 pounds and 15 to 20 years
Regions
Albania, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Egypt, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Latvia, Lebanon, Libyan Arab Jamahiriya, Lithuania, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Serbia and Montenegro, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Tunisia, Turkey, Ukraine, United Kingdom, Morocco
The European Eel is a migratory fish species found in freshwater and coastal habitats across Europe, Asia and Africa. The remaining population of European Eels has drastically declined due to a combination of factors, including overfishing, habitat loss, pollution, and barriers to migration such as dams and weirs. Changes in ocean currents and climate change also affect their survival. Conservation efforts focus on implementing fishing quotas, improving habitat connectivity, and reducing pollution to aid in the recovery of this critically endangered species.
Activity Instructions
- Draw the Animal: Use the next page to draw a picture of the animal. Use your imagination and make it colorful!
- Write an Essay: Write a short essay about the conservation efforts to save this animal. Here are some questions to guide you:
- Why is this species important in its ecosystem?
- What are the threats it faces, and how can we help?
- What do you find most interesting about this species?
