Fish stock increase at lake in Kočevska Reka

Irregular nesting of pair of white tailed eagles at lake in Kočevska Reka indicates that the feeding habitat is not optimal. In order to improve the breeding success and the survival of the young, and even increase the number of breeding pairs in the area in the long run we decided to increase indigenous fish stocks in the lake. Over 200 fish of different sizes, mainly chub (Squalius cephalus) and  pike (Esox Lucius), were released into the area of the lake, where white tailed eagle pair hunts. The fish were caught the same day by fisherman from local angling club. The fishing method used was electrofishing. Electrofishing is a common scientific survey method used to sample fish populations to determine abundance, density, and species composition. When performed correctly, electrofishing results in no permanent harm to fish, which return to their natural state in as little as two minutes after being caught.

News prepared by The Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation.