What does cutthroat trout eat?

Cutthroat trout are opportunistic feeders, meaning they'll eat whatever is available and most readily accessible. Their diet varies depending on their size, location, and the season, but generally includes:

Insects:

* Aquatic insects: Mayflies, caddisflies, stoneflies, dragonflies, and damselflies.

* Terrestrial insects: Ants, beetles, grasshoppers, and moths that fall into the water.

Other invertebrates:

* Crustaceans: Crayfish, shrimp, and scuds.

* Worms: Earthworms, nightcrawlers, and other aquatic worms.

* Snails and clams: They may consume small mollusks.

Fish:

* Smaller fish: They prey on other trout species, minnows, and other smaller fish depending on their size and availability.

* Fish eggs: They readily consume the eggs of other fish species.

Other:

* Amphibians: Tadpoles and small frogs.

* Small mammals: Mice, voles, and shrews that fall into the water.

* Carrion: They'll scavenge on dead animals, especially during winter when other food sources are scarce.

Juvenile cutthroat trout:

* Plankton: Microscopic organisms they filter from the water.

* Smaller invertebrates: Primarily insects and crustaceans.

As they grow larger, their diet shifts to include larger prey.

Important Note: Their diet can change significantly depending on the specific habitat they live in. For instance, cutthroat trout in lakes may eat more fish, while those in streams may rely more heavily on insects.