Mysterious, slippery, and often misunderstood, eels have fascinated humans for centuries.
How big do eels grow?
Typically around 40cm long but can grow to 120cm and weigh 5kg.
How long do they live?
Lifespans vary, but they mature at around 8 years old and might live for 60 years or more.
Can they survive out of water?
For short periods, yes. There are anecdotal records of them moving across land to reach other water courses.
Do they bite people?
They have small teeth but would only bite humans in self-defence.
Where are eels seen in the UK?
All around the coastline and inland in rivers, streams, ponds and lochs.
Are all eels electric?
No, only 3 species of eel can discharge electric shocks and they occur in South America.
- How an electric eel works and the maximum shock it delivers... (you wouldn't want to be be hit by its deadly high-voltage charge
- 10 electric animals, from a ray that packs a deadly high-voltage punch to a species that uses electricity to communicate
Are eels slimy?
Yes, they are covered in a mucus that protects them from disease and helps them evade predators.
Do eels have bones?
Yes, they have a skeleton with bones that they can partially digest as they migrate to breed.
Can I fish for eels?
Yes, but they are prone to deep-hooking. Advice on safe rigs can be found at www.nationalanguillaclub.co.uk
Do all European eels migrate to the Sargasso Sea?
Some don’t and continue to grow and age. Very large eels have been observed in places such as Loch Ness.