What eats a lake trout?

Lake trout are apex predators, meaning they are at the top of the food chain. However, they are still preyed upon by a few larger fish and animals:

Fish:

* Larger lake trout: Cannibalism is known to occur, especially among young lake trout.

* Northern pike: A fierce predator capable of taking down adult lake trout.

* Muskellunge: Another large predatory fish that can prey on lake trout.

* Walleye: Can eat smaller lake trout, especially young ones.

Other Animals:

* Lake sturgeon: A large, ancient fish that can prey on lake trout.

* Sea lamprey: A parasitic fish that attaches to lake trout and sucks their blood.

* Salmon: Large salmon species, like Chinook salmon, can prey on lake trout.

* Birds: Large birds like loons and eagles can occasionally catch smaller lake trout.

* Mammals: Otters, seals, and even bears can prey on lake trout.

It's important to note that the specific predators of lake trout vary depending on the location and the size of the trout. Larger, older lake trout are less likely to be preyed upon than smaller, younger ones.