Pumpkinseed

Native to the Midwest and Eastern United States, the pumpkin seed (Lepomis gibbosus) has been introduced to lakes, ponds, and streams across the US and in at least 34 different countries. The lateral areas of pumpkin seeds range from yellow to olive green and typically are covered in spots of copper and gold. In adults, the rear edge of their oracle flap has a red-orange crescent marking. The common name of this species is a reference to their body shape. This species consumes a variety of prey including insects, larvae, mollusks, snails, crustaceans, leeches, and small fish and vertebrates. During breeding, males will build nests and guard the eggs for roughly seven days.

Fun Fact: The bright spot on the oracle flap is thought to resemble an eye to scare off potential predators.