Wild Wednesday – European eel
This week we're shining a light on one of our most fascinating and mysterious local species, the European eel.
Although they might look unusual, eels are an important part of our rivers, wetlands and coastal habitats, including those here in West Sussex.
A traveller like no other
European eels begin their lives thousands of miles away in the Sargasso Sea in the Atlantic Ocean. Their tiny, transparent larvae drift on ocean currents for up to two years before reaching European shores.
When they arrive in the UK, they become 'glass eels' and start moving into rivers and streams, including local waterways such as the River Arun, River Rother (East Sussex/Kent), and their tributaries.
Here in West Sussex, they spend 10 to 20 years growing and feeding in freshwater, before transforming into 'silver eels' and making the long journey all the way back across the Atlantic to spawn.
Eels in West Sussex
Our local river networks and wetlands provide important habitat for European eels. However, like many areas across the country, these environments haven't always been easy for them to navigate.
Structures such as weirs, sluices, and tidal gates, including along the Arun Valley and coastal catchments, can make it difficult for eels to move upstream and complete their life cycle.
The good news is that work is taking place across West Sussex to help. This includes:
- improving river connectivity through fish and eel passes
- enhancing habitats in rivers, ditches and wetlands
- working with partners to improve water quality
These efforts are helping to make it easier for eels, and other wildlife, to move freely and thrive.
Why they matter
European eels are now classed as critically endangered, with populations having dropped significantly over recent decades.
They play a key role in local ecosystems, helping maintain balance as both predators and prey. Their decline is linked to several factors, including:
- barriers to migration
- pollution and habitat loss
- changes in ocean conditions
- historic overfishing
Protecting them locally is a vital part of supporting their global recovery.
Did you know?
- European eels can travel over 3,000 miles in their lifetime
- they can absorb oxygen through their skin, allowing them to survive short journeys over damp land
- despite years of research, no one has ever directly observed them spawning in the wild
You can support eels and other wildlife in West Sussex by supporting local conservation projects and reporting barriers or issues you spot in local waterways
Read more: European eel | Rewilding Britain
Photo credit: Derek Middelton