STATION 4: DISPLAY POND
These fish give visitors a close-up view of mature trout. Their ages range from 1 to 5 years,and some may weigh more than 5 pounds. Note the protruding lower jaw on some of these fish. These "hook jaws" are found only on mature males, and thus make it easy to distinguish between the sexes. These fish have been know to make an appearance at local fishing Derby's, so be prepared!
Please do not throw bread or other objects into the ponds.
Use the vending machines if you would like to feed the fish.
The following will help you recognize the different spices found in this pond
Rainbow Trout
Rainbow Trout have many round black dots along the upper portion of its body, head, and tail. Along the sides there is a faint pink to brilliant red streak. This species originally came from western North America and northern Mexico, and was introduced to this region in the 1800"s. In the wild they will spawn in the spring or fall, depending on the particular strain. The average life span is 6 - 7 years.
Brook Trout
Commonly referred to as Speckled Trout, these fish have pink or reddish spots surrounded by blue halos. The edges of their fins are trimmed with white and black, and the upper portion of the body has worm - like markings. Brook trout are generally smaller than Rainbows. Because they are a native species of the northeastern U.S., great efforts are taken to maintain these fish as our natural heritage. "Brookies" prefer the cooler water of fast streams and deep lakes. Their lifespan is shorter than a Rainbow Trout, usually about 5 years.
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