The fascinating annual salmon migration is currently taking place in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), but experts are noting that the warm weather and low rainfall are affecting the pace of the migration in local waterways.
Colin Love, from the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA), emphasizes that this natural phenomenon is a truly remarkable seasonal event in the GTA.
“We are incredibly fortunate in the GTA to witness this amazing spectacle right in our own backyard,” Love shared with CityNews.
Usually, salmon are prompted to migrate upstream by rainfall, but this year’s dry spell is causing some delays in the process in certain creeks and rivers. Love points out that in the past, the region was home to Atlantic salmon, but their population declined due to urbanization and loss of habitat. Today, the migrating fish are mostly made up of introduced species like Chinook and Coho salmon.
“The decision was made to bring in Pacific salmon… and to this day, they are the ones we often see completing the migration,” Love explained.
When asked if the absence of salmon in some creeks is worrisome, Love mentioned that under the current conditions, it is not a cause for concern.
“Given the temperature, it’s not unexpected. There’s no need to worry at this time,” he stated. “We can’t always anticipate when these natural events will occur.”
According to TRCA, the salmon run might extend into late October, depending on weather conditions. Conservation authorities are encouraging locals to go to nearby rivers and streams to witness this incredible migration, but they advise people to maintain a safe distance and not disturb the fish.