Wildlife Information -Cutthroat Trout
COMMON NAME
COMMON NAME Native Trout, Cut, Red Throat, Mountain Trout, Black-spotted Trout
IDENTIFYING FEATURES
Cutthroat trout have a greenish back with black spots. Their sides are olive to silver in color. They have a red "cut-throat" mark on their lower jaw.
TYPICAL ADULT
Length Up to 19 inches
Weight Up to 5 pounds (may reach 40 pounds)
Life Span Up to 7 years
Habitat
Cutthroat trout inhabit cold streams and mountain lakes in the western U.S. The preferred water temperature is 55 to 62°F.
Feeding Behavior
Cutthroat trout feed on insects, small fish, and occassionally trout eggs, crustaceans, frogs, and earthworms.
Reproductive Behavior
In the spring, the female constructs nest-like depressions called "redds" by brushing aside gravel in small streams. The adults do not guard the nest.
Did You Know?
- There are 14 different recognized subspecies of cutthroat trout. Cutthroat trout do not successfully spawn in lakes.
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