Wildlife

Wild Animal Welfare and Migratory Fish Welfare

Migratory fish including Atlantic salmon and eels face welfare challenges from dams, pollution, and overfishing during their complex migrations.

Key Facts

Atlantic salmon populations have declined by over 70% in the past 25 years
River barriers including dams prevent salmon migration to spawning grounds
Fish passes at dams restore some connectivity but are not equally effective for all species
European eel populations have declined by over 90% and are critically endangered
Electrofishing surveys cause stress and require careful welfare protocols

Welfare Considerations

Migratory fish face welfare challenges throughout their complex life cycles. River restoration, barrier removal, and responsible management reduce individual suffering and prevent population collapse.

What You Can Do

Support river barrier removal programs in your region
Advocate for mandatory fish passes on all river barriers
Choose seafood from fisheries with documented sustainable management