Bluegill Sunfish
(Lepomis macrochirus)
How did the bluegill sunfish get its name?
The name "bluegill" refers to the dark blue scales at the end of the gill or "ear-flap."
How big do bluegills get?
Bluegill sunfish typically grow 4 to 8 inches long, but in the best possible conditions they can reach 10-12 inches. However, sunfish are prone to stunting, which means areas that have good breeding habitat but lack food produce large populations of small adults that never grow more than 4 or 5 inches.
How long do bluegill sunfish live?
Bluegill sunfish typically live around 5-8 years.
Where do bluegills fall in the food chain?
Bluegills eat aquatic insects, small minnows, and small crustaceans. They are preyed upon by larger fish such as northerns, walleye, and bass as well as birds like herons and egrets.
What is the best habitat for bluegills?
Bluegill sunfish are typically found in ponds, lakes, and slow-moving rivers.
Where do bluegills lay their eggs?
In late spring, bluegill spawning beds can be found in shallow water and are clustered together with up to 50 beds in one spot. The males will protect beds and attack anything that comes near, which makes them easy to catch in the spring.
Do people fish for bluegill sunfish?
Yes. Bluegills are the most common sunfish fished for sport and are likely the most popular freshwater game fish in the United States.
The information above is common scientific knowledge. For a list of specific resources, visit the Animal FAQ Resources page.
