The remaining male and female salmon pair up to spawn. A single female salmon can lay as many as 8000 eggs in nests known as redds that they dig out with their tails. Once the eggs are fertilized, the female salmon will continue to guard them. But eventually both males and females die, and their exhausted bodies wash downstream.

Their multi-year journey is now at an end – but their impact continues within the ecosystem.

The carcasses of salmon will feed scavenging animals and enrich the soil of the rainforest. The nutrients of their decaying bodies will also feed stream organisms, which will in turn feed young salmon once they are hatched.

The cycle prepares to repeat itself - uninterrupted but under threat. Today fewer salmon survive to complete this ancient migration.

For every 2000 eggs laid, only one or two adult salmon will make the journey and return safely to the river.

Your journey here is almost over - just one more thing, how to help the salmon continue theirs…

Changes to daily habits can make a difference - plus it’s good to keep in mind that when we protect salmon habitat, we protect our own homes too.

You can also check out the many great community organizations we have listed. Sign up for a newsletter, attend an event, or see about offering up a few hours as a volunteer.

Help keep the cycle uninterrupted - thank you!



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