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Muskellunge
Habitat and Diet:
The muskellunge, or muskie, is an awesome "predator
machine." It hides near shore in the shadows of plants or
submerged logs, coming out only to strike swiftly at a prey fish
(which it often takes back to a concealed area before eating).
Few fish can match the muskie's huge appetite. The muskie
eats perch, suckers, catfish, minnows, sunfishes and probably
any other fish available in its habitat. Larger muskies will
attack and eat nearly any living animal, including small
rodents, waterfowl and muskrats.
Relationship to humans:
Anglers seek large muskies as trophies or for sport. Muskies
are known for their strength and for their tendency to leap
from the water in stunning acrobatic displays.
Fun/Unusual fact:
A challenging fish to catch, the muskie has been called "the fish
of ten thousand casts".
Many thanks to the Thunder Bay Woodcarvers for their artistry and generosity
in creating the muskie in our display!