Versatility in habitat use by a top aquatic predator, Esox lucius L.

The habitat selected by northern pike, Esox lucius, a solitary top aquatic predator, was evaluated using radio location and ultrasonic telemetry. These predators moved extensively throughout the lake and exhibited a distinct preference for shallow vegetated areas close to shore. Selection of habitat was significantly influenced by meteorological factors. On windy days pike chose habitats which were further from shore, but not necessarily deeper, than those chosen on calm days. On sunny days pike moved into habitats that were close to shore and relatively shallow. Habitat selection of pike was not significantly influenced by rain. Northern pike exhibited a much greater versatility in the range of habitats they utilized than was previously believed. We propose that such versatility is an important feature of the behaviour of top predators.