Trout & Salmon
Westslope Cutthroat Trout
Oncorhynchus lewisi
FreshwaterSalmonidaeVulnerable
About
The Westslope Cutthroat Trout is a freshwater fish characterized by its distinctive red or orange slash marks on the underside of its lower jaw. They are opportunistic feeders and are known to inhabit clear, cold streams, rivers, and lakes, often in mountainous regions.
- Average size
- 8-16 inches, 0.5-2 lbs
- Colors
- Olive-green to yellowish-brown back and sides, with black spots concentrated towards the tail. Possesses red or orange slash marks under the jaw.
- Diet
- Primarily aquatic insects (larvae and adults), terrestrial insects that fall into the water, and small crustaceans. Larger individuals may also consume small fish.
- Region
- Primarily found in the northern Rocky Mountains of the United States and Canada, including Montana, Idaho, Washington, Oregon, and British Columbia.