Marine

Wild European Eel Population Welfare and Crisis

European eels are critically endangered after population collapse of over 95%. Their welfare encompasses both wild fish and the farmed eel industry.

Key Facts

European eel populations have declined by 95% since the 1970s
Their complete life cycle from Sargasso Sea spawning to European rivers is poorly understood
Glass eel collection for aquaculture competes with restocking conservation programmes
Barriers to river migration including weirs and dams prevent natural movement

Welfare Considerations

European eel welfare requires urgent conservation priority given critical population status. Reducing obstruction of migration routes, banning glass eel collection except for restocking, and addressing all mortality sources simultaneously represents the welfare and conservation response.

What You Can Do

Support Sustainable Eel Group campaigns for eel conservation
Report eel population sightings to the Environment Agency
Advocate for eel pass installation on weirs and barriers on rivers