Salmon Life Cycle

Salmon begin their life in freshwater streams, where they hatch from eggs laid in gravel. As they grow, they develop into fry and eventually migrate downstream to the ocean, where they spend several years feeding and maturing. When ready to reproduce, they undertake a remarkable journey back to their natal freshwater spawning grounds, often navigating thousands of miles and overcoming obstacles. After spawning, most salmon die, providing nutrients for the ecosystem. The cycle then begins anew as their eggs hatch, continuing the species' life cycle through these distinct stages of freshwater and ocean life.