Why do salmon jump continually before going upstream to spawn?

Hi, nschaeffer!

Have you tried doing the following searches or searches like them using slightly different wording? The information's out there, it just might take some creative ways on your part to find it.

Thanks!

Salmon Jumping Upstream to Spawn - Google Search (http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&safe=off&q=Salmon+Jumping+Upstream+to+Spawn)

Salmon Jumping Continually Before Spawning - Google Search (http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&safe=off&q=Salmon+Jumping+Continually+Before+Spawning)

Because there are so many parasites in creeks/streams, salmon will jump to get them off (if they have any on them), because even if the parasites are on the outside, they can greatly affect the health of the eggs

Hello nschaeffer,
This behavior has been studied, and the answer(s) are pretty general. It is believed that it is for a few reasons: It helps the salmon 'cover' more ground in a less exhaustive way. Since it's a natural behavior, it comes easily to them. Another possible reason is the chemical composition is their system changes so much prior to their final climb-not unlike a large roost of Birds nervously chirping just before their large burst to start their migration, the excitement level and nervousness builds to an almost intolerable level. The jumping also helps to relieve some of this pressure build up.