These life-cycle tables were constructed using data compiled by: Wilson and Peacock (2025). Freshwater life-cycle timing of Pacific salmon and steelhead (Oncorhynchus spp.) in Canada. Canadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences (in press).

1 Summary

We have estimated the timing of four key life stages for Conservation Units (CUs) of five Pacific salmon species and steelhead trout 1. PSF will be using this information to determine the relative exposure of CUs to climate changes in freshwater across four freshwater life stages: eggs/alevin, juvenile freshwater rearing, adult freshwater migration, and spawning.

In order to estimate these four freshwater life stages we collated information on the timing of four life stage events. These events are:

  1. Fry migration- the movement of fry from the gravel to freshwater rearing grounds, which marks the end of the egg/alevin life stage and beginning of the juvenile freshwater life stage.
  2. Ocean entry- juvenile migration into the marine environment - adjusted for downstream migration distance given average swim speeds where rearing locations (and points of data collection) are >~40km from the ocean. This life cycle event marks the end of the juvenile freshwater rearing stage.
  3. Adult freshwater entry – the entrance of returning adults into freshwater marks the beginning of the adult freshwater migration stage.
  4. Spawn timing – the start of spawning marks the beginning of the eggs/alevin stage and end of the adult freshwater migration stage (allowing for temporal overlap of stages to account for within-CU variability in timing).

For each of these life cycle events, we have estimated the start and end of the timing window as the 2.5th and 97.5th percentiles of the cumulative timing from available data for the CU.

Fry migration and ocean entry timing were determined through a literature review and compilation of historic data. Migration data were typically collected using rotary screw traps, incline plane traps, and fyke nets. Adult run timing was determined from reports of catch (e.g., Tyee test fishery; Albion fishery) assigned to CUs based on genetic stock identification. Spawn timing (except for steelhead) was estimated for each CU using NuSEDs data on start, peak, and end spawn times for river populations within that CU. Run timing and spawn timing for steelhead trout were collated from historic reports. In these reports, timing was typically determined using radio telemetry.

Although these sources represent the best publicly available information, the data on timing are limited. There are many CUs for which we were unable to find information on the above life cycle events, and CUs with information often have data from only a single location for a handful of years. As such, we are seeking input from experts to ensure the information is accurate. We would appreciate any feedback on the timing of life cycle events presented here, including suggestions for additional data sources (e.g., for run timing or for spawn timing in the Transboundary region).

Using these four life stage events we estimate four freshwater life stages:

  1. Incubation - begins with the 2.5% percentile of the cumulative spawn timing, and ends with the 97.5% percentile of the cumulative fry migration.

  2. Freshwater rearing - If juveniles rear for more than one year, this stage will span the whole year. If migration takes place within the first year (0+) then freshwater rearing begins with the 2.5% percentile of the cumulative fry migration, and ends with the 97.5% percentile of the cumulative ocean entry.

  3. Upriver migration - begins with 2.5% percentile of adult freshwater entry, and ends with the with the 2.5% percentile of spawning.

  4. Spawn timing –begins with the 2.5% percentile of the cumulative spawn timing, and ends with the 97.5% percentile of the cumulative spawn timing.

2 Life Cycle Tables

2.1 Fraser River Region

2.1.1 Fraser River Steelhead

*Figure 1.1: Life stage timing for steelhead Conservation Units in the Fraser River. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6).*

Figure 1.1: Life stage timing for steelhead Conservation Units in the Fraser River. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6).

2.1.2 Fraser River Coho Salmon

*Figure 1.2: Life stage timing for coho Conservation Units in the Fraser River. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6).*

Figure 1.2: Life stage timing for coho Conservation Units in the Fraser River. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6).

2.1.3 Fraser River Chinook Salmon

*Figure 1.3: Life stage timing for Chinook Conservation Units in the Fraser River. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6).*

Figure 1.3: Life stage timing for Chinook Conservation Units in the Fraser River. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6).

2.1.4 Fraser River Sockeye Salmon

*Figure 1.4: Life stage timing for Lake and River type Sockeye Conservation Units in the Fraser River. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6). Note that a 1+ life history for lake-type sockeye and 0+ is assumed for river-type sockeye unless a different predominant life history was observed in fry migration.*

Figure 1.4: Life stage timing for Lake and River type Sockeye Conservation Units in the Fraser River. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6). Note that a 1+ life history for lake-type sockeye and 0+ is assumed for river-type sockeye unless a different predominant life history was observed in fry migration.

2.1.5 Fraser River Pink Salmon (Odd-year) and Chum

*Figure 1.5: Life stage timing for odd year pink and chum salmon Conservation Units in the Fraser River. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6). Note that because pink and chum salmon migrate to the ocean soon after emergence, there is no freshwater rearing stage.*

Figure 1.5: Life stage timing for odd year pink and chum salmon Conservation Units in the Fraser River. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6). Note that because pink and chum salmon migrate to the ocean soon after emergence, there is no freshwater rearing stage.

2.2 Vancouver Island and Mainland Inlets Region

2.2.1 Vancouver Island and Mainland Inlets Steelhead

*Figure 2.1: Life stage timing for steelhead Conservation Units in the Vancouver Island and Mainland Inlets region. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6).*

Figure 2.1: Life stage timing for steelhead Conservation Units in the Vancouver Island and Mainland Inlets region. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6).

2.2.2 Vancouver Island and Mainland Inlets Coho Salmon

*Figure 2.2: Life stage timing for coho Conservation Units in the Vancouver Island and Mainland Inlets region. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6).*

Figure 2.2: Life stage timing for coho Conservation Units in the Vancouver Island and Mainland Inlets region. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6).

2.2.3 Vancouver Island and Mainland Inlets Chinook Salmon

*Figure 2.3: Life stage timing for Chinook Conservation Units in the Vancouver Island and Mainland Inlets region. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6).*

Figure 2.3: Life stage timing for Chinook Conservation Units in the Vancouver Island and Mainland Inlets region. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6).

2.2.4 Vancouver Island and Mainland Inlets Sockeye Salmon

*Figure 2.4: Life stage timing for Lake and River type Sockeye Conservation Units in the Vancouver Island and Mainland Inlets region. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6). Note that a 1+ life history for lake-type sockeye and 0+ is assumed for river-type sockeye unless a different predominant life history was observed in fry migration.*

Figure 2.4: Life stage timing for Lake and River type Sockeye Conservation Units in the Vancouver Island and Mainland Inlets region. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6). Note that a 1+ life history for lake-type sockeye and 0+ is assumed for river-type sockeye unless a different predominant life history was observed in fry migration.

2.2.5 Vancouver Island and Mainland Inlets Pink Salmon (Odd-year), Pink (Even-year) and Chum

*Figure 2.5: Life stage timing for odd- and even- year pink and chum salmon Conservation Units in the Vancouver Island and Mainland Inlets region. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6). Note that because pink and chum salmon migrate to the ocean soon after emergence, there is no freshwater rearing stage.*

Figure 2.5: Life stage timing for odd- and even- year pink and chum salmon Conservation Units in the Vancouver Island and Mainland Inlets region. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6). Note that because pink and chum salmon migrate to the ocean soon after emergence, there is no freshwater rearing stage.

2.3 Central Coast Region

2.3.1 Central Coast Steelhead

*Figure 3.1: Life stage timing for steelhead Conservation Units in the Central Coast region. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6).*

Figure 3.1: Life stage timing for steelhead Conservation Units in the Central Coast region. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6).

2.3.2 Central Coast Coho Salmon

*Figure 3.2: Life stage timing for coho Conservation Units in the Central Coast region. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6).*

Figure 3.2: Life stage timing for coho Conservation Units in the Central Coast region. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6).

2.3.3 Central Coast Chinook Salmon

*Figure 3.3: Life stage timing for Chinook Conservation Units in the Central Coast region. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6).*

Figure 3.3: Life stage timing for Chinook Conservation Units in the Central Coast region. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6).

2.3.4 Central Coast Sockeye Salmon

*Figure 3.4: Life stage timing for Lake and River type Sockeye Conservation Units in the Central Coast region (Part 1). Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6). Note that a 1+ life history for lake-type sockeye and 0+ is assumed for river-type sockeye unless a different predominant life history was observed in fry migration.*

Figure 3.4: Life stage timing for Lake and River type Sockeye Conservation Units in the Central Coast region (Part 1). Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6). Note that a 1+ life history for lake-type sockeye and 0+ is assumed for river-type sockeye unless a different predominant life history was observed in fry migration.

2.3.5 Central Coast Pink Salmon (Odd-year), Pink (Even-year) and Chum

*Figure 3.5: Life stage timing for odd- and even- year pink and chum salmon Conservation Units in the Central Coast region.Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6). Note that because pink and chum salmon migrate to the ocean soon after emergence, there is no freshwater rearing stage.*

Figure 3.5: Life stage timing for odd- and even- year pink and chum salmon Conservation Units in the Central Coast region.Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6). Note that because pink and chum salmon migrate to the ocean soon after emergence, there is no freshwater rearing stage.

2.4 Haida Gwaii Region

2.4.1 Haida Gwaii Steelhead, Chinook and Coho Salmon

*Figure 4.1: Life stage timing for coho, Chinook and steelhead Conservation Units in the Haida Gwaii region. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6).*

Figure 4.1: Life stage timing for coho, Chinook and steelhead Conservation Units in the Haida Gwaii region. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6).

2.4.2 Haida Gwaii Sockeye Salmon

*Figure 4.2: Life stage timing for Lake and River type Sockeye Conservation Units in the Haida Gwaii region. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6). Note that a 1+ life history for lake-type sockeye and 0+ is assumed for river-type sockeye unless a different predominant life history was observed in fry migration.*

Figure 4.2: Life stage timing for Lake and River type Sockeye Conservation Units in the Haida Gwaii region. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6). Note that a 1+ life history for lake-type sockeye and 0+ is assumed for river-type sockeye unless a different predominant life history was observed in fry migration.

2.4.3 Haida Gwaii Pink Salmon (Odd-year), Pink (Even-year) and Chum

*Figure 4.3: Life stage timing for odd- and even- year pink and chum salmon Conservation Units in the Haida Gwaii region. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6). Note that because pink and chum salmon migrate to the ocean soon after emergence, there is no freshwater rearing stage.*

Figure 4.3: Life stage timing for odd- and even- year pink and chum salmon Conservation Units in the Haida Gwaii region. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6). Note that because pink and chum salmon migrate to the ocean soon after emergence, there is no freshwater rearing stage.

2.5 Skeena River Region

2.5.1 Skeena River Steelhead

*Figure 5.1: Life stage timing for steelhead Conservation Units in the Skeena River. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning and end of each stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6).*

Figure 5.1: Life stage timing for steelhead Conservation Units in the Skeena River. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning and end of each stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6).

2.5.2 Skeena River Coho Salmon

*Figure 5.2: Life stage timing for coho Conservation Units in the Skeena River. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning and end of each stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6).*

Figure 5.2: Life stage timing for coho Conservation Units in the Skeena River. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning and end of each stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6).

2.5.3 Skeena River Chinook Salmon

*Figure 5.3: Life stage timing for Chinook Conservation Units in the Skeena River. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning and end of each stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6).*

Figure 5.3: Life stage timing for Chinook Conservation Units in the Skeena River. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning and end of each stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6).

2.5.4 Skeena River Sockeye Salmon

*Figure 5.4: Life stage timing for Lake and River type Sockeye Conservation Units in the Skeena River. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning and end of each stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6). Note that a 1+ life history for lake-type sockeye and 0+ is assumed for river-type sockeye unless a different predominant life history was observed in fry migration.*

Figure 5.4: Life stage timing for Lake and River type Sockeye Conservation Units in the Skeena River. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning and end of each stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6). Note that a 1+ life history for lake-type sockeye and 0+ is assumed for river-type sockeye unless a different predominant life history was observed in fry migration.

2.5.5 Skeena River Pink Salmon (Odd-year) and Chum

*Figure 5.5: Life stage timing for odd year pink and chum salmon Conservation Units in the Skeena River. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning and end of each stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6).. Note that because pink and chum salmon migrate to the ocean soon after emergence, there is no freshwater rearing stage.*

Figure 5.5: Life stage timing for odd year pink and chum salmon Conservation Units in the Skeena River. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning and end of each stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6).. Note that because pink and chum salmon migrate to the ocean soon after emergence, there is no freshwater rearing stage.

2.6 Nass Region

2.6.1 Nass Steelhead, Chinook and Coho Salmon

*Figure 6.1: Life stage timing for coho, Chinook and steelhead Conservation Units in the Nass region. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6).*

Figure 6.1: Life stage timing for coho, Chinook and steelhead Conservation Units in the Nass region. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6).

2.6.2 Nass Sockeye Salmon

*Figure 6.2: Life stage timing for Lake and River type Sockeye Conservation Units in the Nass region. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6). Note that a 1+ life history for lake-type sockeye and 0+ is assumed for river-type sockeye unless a different predominant life history was observed in fry migration.*

Figure 6.2: Life stage timing for Lake and River type Sockeye Conservation Units in the Nass region. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6). Note that a 1+ life history for lake-type sockeye and 0+ is assumed for river-type sockeye unless a different predominant life history was observed in fry migration.

2.6.3 Nass Pink Salmon (Odd-year), Pink (Even-year) and Chum

*Figure 6.3: Life stage timing for odd- and even- year pink and chum salmon Conservation Units in the Nass region. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6). Note that because pink and chum salmon migrate to the ocean soon after emergence, there is no freshwater rearing stage.*

Figure 6.3: Life stage timing for odd- and even- year pink and chum salmon Conservation Units in the Nass region. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6). Note that because pink and chum salmon migrate to the ocean soon after emergence, there is no freshwater rearing stage.

2.7 Alaska and Transboundary Region

2.7.1 Transboundary Steelhead, Chinook and Coho Salmon

*Figure 7.1: Life stage timing for coho, Chinook and steelhead Conservation Units in the Transboundary region. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6).*Note* There were no observations of peak, start, or end spawn timing for this region in the NuSEDS database.*

Figure 7.1: Life stage timing for coho, Chinook and steelhead Conservation Units in the Transboundary region. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6).Note* There were no observations of peak, start, or end spawn timing for this region in the NuSEDS database.*

2.7.2 Transboundary Sockeye Salmon

*Figure 7.2: Life stage timing for Lake and River type Sockeye Conservation Units in the Transboundary region. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6). Note that a 1+ life history for lake-type sockeye and 0+ is assumed for river-type sockeye unless a different predominant life history was observed in fry migration. There were no observations of peak, start, or end spawn timing for this region in the NuSEDS database.*

Figure 7.2: Life stage timing for Lake and River type Sockeye Conservation Units in the Transboundary region. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6). Note that a 1+ life history for lake-type sockeye and 0+ is assumed for river-type sockeye unless a different predominant life history was observed in fry migration. There were no observations of peak, start, or end spawn timing for this region in the NuSEDS database.

2.7.3 Transboundary Pink Salmon (Odd-year), Pink (Even-year) and Chum

*Figure 7.3: Life stage timing for odd- and even- year pink and chum salmon Conservation Units in the Transboundary region. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6). Note that because pink and chum salmon migrate to the ocean soon after emergence, there is no freshwater rearing stage.There were no observations of peak, start, or end spawn timing for this region in the NuSEDS database.*

Figure 7.3: Life stage timing for odd- and even- year pink and chum salmon Conservation Units in the Transboundary region. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6). Note that because pink and chum salmon migrate to the ocean soon after emergence, there is no freshwater rearing stage.There were no observations of peak, start, or end spawn timing for this region in the NuSEDS database.

2.8 Yukon Region

2.8.1 Yukon Chinook

*Figure 8.1: Life stage timing for Chinook salmon Conservation Units in the Yukon region. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6).*Note* There was much less data available for this region, some life cycle timings are estimates, and most are based off of very few observations.*

Figure 8.1: Life stage timing for Chinook salmon Conservation Units in the Yukon region. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6).Note* There was much less data available for this region, some life cycle timings are estimates, and most are based off of very few observations.*

2.8.2 Yukon Chum and Coho salmon

*Figure 8.2: Life stage timing for coho and chum salmon Conservation Units in the Yukon region. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6).*Note* There was much less data available for this region, some life cycle timings are estimates, and most are based off of very few observations.*

Figure 8.2: Life stage timing for coho and chum salmon Conservation Units in the Yukon region. Horizontal lines indicate the start and end of each life stage: Incubation (light blue), freshwater rearing (green), adult upstream migration and holding (dark blue), and spawning (medium blue). Triangles indicate the beginning (upwards triangle) and end of each (downwards triangle) stage (e.g. incubation; upward triangle = 2.5% percentile of cumulative spawning, downward triangle indicates 97.5% percentile of cumulative fry migration). Filled triangles indicate that the start or end of the stage is based on observations, while open triangles indicate data is imputed (e.g. data quality = 6).Note* There was much less data available for this region, some life cycle timings are estimates, and most are based off of very few observations.*

3 Datasets

The datasets used to generate the following life cycle charts are available HERE. Descriptions of each file are located in the readme file in that folder. Briefly, the number of each file depicts the order that the data were summarized in, with:

1Life_cycle_timing_by_reference sheet showing the raw data entered from each reference.

2Life_cycle_timing_by_location is then a summary by location of all the information in 1Life_cycle_timing_by_reference sheet.

3Life_cycle_timing_by_CU is a summary of the location-specific information from 2Life_cycle_timing_by_location.

4Life_cycle_table_by_CU shows the data used to generate the life cycle tables below and includes raw data from 3Life_cycle_timing_by_CU and extrapolations.

4 Contact Information

If you have feedback or questions please contact Stephanie Peacock (speacock[at]psf.ca) or Sam Wilson (swilson471[at]gmail.com)

  1. Conservation Units have been defined under Canada’s Wild Salmon Policy as ecologically and genetically unique groups of salmon that, if extirpated, are unlikely to be recolonized within an acceptable timeframe. Steelhead were not formally included in the Wild Salmon Policy or work led by DFO to define CUs for salmon. However, past work has been done to define 36 provisional CUs for steelhead in BC, which characterize the biodiversity of steelhead in BC using similar methods to those used to define salmon CUs (Tautz et al. 2011, Parkinson et al. 2005). Future work is needed to review and potentially refine these steelhead CUs based on more recent research and data to ensure they fully capture the diversity of steelhead in BC and meet the Wild Salmon Policy’s definition of a CU. We have used provisional steelhead CUs from Tautz et al. (2011) for the Skeena Region and from Parkinson et al. (2005) for all other Regions when summarizing timing data.↩︎