The Behavioral Response of Lake Trout to a Loss of Traditional Spawning Sites

Behavioral responses of native lake trout to loss of historic spawning habitat in an Ontario, Canada, lake were studied. Two such sites were covered to prevent their use by lake trout. Spawning site inspections, egg collections, population data, and behavior observations showed that lake trout chose 12 new sites around the lake. Following further removal of spawning sites the next year, egg density at remaining sites increased and eight more new sites were used. No significant changes in the timing of spawning or population size were observed. When usable spawning habitat is not limited, lake trout will seek out alternative spawning sites if traditionally used sites are lost.