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1 January 2016 Documentation of Cryptobranchus alleganiensis alleganiensis (Eastern Hellbender) Predation on Nest-Associate Stream Fishes
Corey G. Dunn
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Abstract

The covert habits of Cryptobranchus alleganiensis alleganiensis (Eastern Hellbender) make direct field observations of their behavior difficult. Here I provide the first video documentation of in situ predation by a hellbender on a spawning aggregation of stream fishes. Both targeting fish and diurnal activity are behaviors rarely documented among hellbenders. The present observation, however, supports previously described patterns of elevated diurnal activity in late spring hypothesized to be associated with increased foraging-activity to meet higher energy-demands. The observation demonstrates that Eastern Hellbenders will modify behavior to exploit stream fishes when prey are easily captured.

Corey G. Dunn "Documentation of Cryptobranchus alleganiensis alleganiensis (Eastern Hellbender) Predation on Nest-Associate Stream Fishes," Northeastern Naturalist 23(3), N8-N11, (1 January 2016). https://doi.org/10.1656/045.023.0303
Published: 1 January 2016
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