Fish With A Bug

FISH WITH A BUG 4-17-26 YOY Studies Special Edition Yesterday, Eric invited me to join him on survey in the Eel River watershed. One of our stops included a spot we’ve dubbed “The Coho Aquarium.” As I searched for a good spot to set my camera, I observed three coho young-of-the-year (YOY). One fish had something in its mouth, but I couldn’t tell what it was. The other two seemed to be chasing it. I put the camera in a spot nearby and stepped back. The fish usually scatter when you place the camera but will come back after a few moments if you’re very still. Later that day I told Eric about what I’d witnessed but I didn’t think I’d captured the event on camera. When I got home last night and reviewed media from my camera I found this! I can’t tell what that little coho YOY has in its mouth but it looks like some kind of insect, perhaps a mosquito. Either way, it’s a big prize for such a young little fish! The initial clip is very short and the action is fast, so in the video I run it gain, slowing it down each time. Then I zoom in on the yoy with the bug. What a rare moment to capture! I love this stuff! #nature #cohosalmon #humboldt