Yellow Perch

Perca flavescens

Yellow Perch

Status

Physical 

The yellow perch has two dorsal fins, one spiny and one soft, as well as yellow sides and seven black vertical stripes. On average, they grow to about 7.5 in (19.1 cm), though this depends on local population density.

Habitat

Their native range covers the Atlantic and Arctic Ocean, across the Great Lakes and Midwest into Ohio and Illinois, and down into South Carolina on the coast. They can be found in ponds, lakes, creek pools and slow-moving rivers. They prefer clear water with vegetation, and sometimes are present in brackish water. Since they’re a popular sport fish, yellow perch have been introduced to many other waterways for fishing.

Feeding 

Yellow perch eat insects, aquatic invertebrates, and small fish.

Yellow Perch
Image by Robert Colletta from U.S Department of Agriculture