Dr Matthew Gollock and intern Laura Kerrigan from ZSL Marine and Freshwater Conservation Programme count juvenile eels in and around the Thames as part of an ongoing study on declining eel populations.
Since spring 2005, ZSL has been monitoring eel migrations in the Thames catchment. By assessing the distribution of eels within the estuary and identifying restrictions on the eels migrational routes, measures can be taken to ensure that this historic and infamous creature remains a viable part of the ecology of the River Thames.
Arriving at the first location, the River Roding. Waders on.
Dr Matt Gollock talking about the decline of eels in recent years and the importance of monitoring and gathering information on juvenile eels, (known as elvers) to help in the conservation of these misunderstood fish.
Every elver counts.
Intern Laura Kerrigan counting and measuring elvers.
Matt releasing the juveniles back into the river.
Reluctantly leaving their new home.
Laura checking traps in the River Wandle.
Maintaining a trap in the River Mole.
Checking temperature and oxygen levels in the water as well as the weight and length of each elver caught, here at the River Darent.
Some of the traps can be tricky to maintain, but where the eels go, scientists must follow.
