An estimated 27 million pink salmon are predicted to return to the Fraser River in 2025 – the highest forecast on record!
Pinks have a two-year life cycle and return in higher numbers in odd-numbered years. How did the odd-year pinks become more dominant?
Thousands of years ago, glaciers likely separated pink salmon into isolated regions where they evolved separately. Over time, two genetically distinct groups emerged, each returning in alternating years. The odd-year pinks are thought to have originated from the Columbia watershed, while the even-year pinks adapted to cooler conditions further north.
This unique evolutionary history may be shaping how pinks respond to climate change. Research suggests that odd-year pinks are better at responding to warming waters and changing ocean conditions. While it’s too early to say why SO many pink salmon are expected to return to the Fraser this year, late August and September promise to be a great time for salmon spotting in southern B.C.
Visit our Salmon Spotting map to find a pink salmon viewing area near you:
https://psf.ca/salmonspotting/
