Wildlife

Wild European Eel Conservation and Welfare

European eels are critically endangered following catastrophic population decline, with welfare and conservation challenges across their complex life cycle.

Key Facts

European eel populations have declined by over 90% since the 1970s
Eels undertake a remarkable migration from European rivers to spawn in the Sargasso Sea
River barriers including dams prevent eel passage and trap migrating silver eels
Eel farming typically involves wild-caught glass eels, as captive breeding is not yet viable
Parasitic swimbladder nematodes reduce swimming capacity in many wild eels

Welfare Considerations

Eels trapped below river barriers cannot complete their migration or access feeding habitat, causing chronic stress and failed reproduction. The welfare of individual eels is compromised at multiple life stages by human impacts including barriers, parasites, and commercial fishing. Eel passes at barriers and fishing restrictions protect individual eel welfare while also supporting population recovery.

What You Can Do

Support the removal of unnecessary river barriers to restore eel migration routes
Avoid eating wild-caught European eel given its critically endangered status
Advocate for river connectivity restoration as a combined welfare and conservation priority