Leech BioloGy

Other State Of Leeches


Annelids or segmented worms
•32 segments regardless of size
•Suckers on each end of their body
•Pigmented skin
•Dull gray or black to bright orange
•Active swimmers and creepers


Parasitic or predatory
•Parasitic blood suckers gorge and may remain dormant for weeks
•Predatory leeches feed on worms, invertebrates, insects, worms and snails.


Where to Find Leeches

•Primarily fresh water.
•Warm protected shallows.
•Maximum abundance –2Metres
•Avoid Light.
•Nocturnal
•Water temperature is not considered a limiting factor.
•Low oxygen levels deplete leech growth.
•Leeches retreat to deep water in the winter
•Most abundant in ponds that do not contain fish.
•Ponds with bullheads, perch or sunfish contain few leeches.
•Fat head minnows benefit leech habitat.
•Ponds shallow with silt
•Substrates and abundant aquatic vegetation near shore.
•Beaver ponds are ideal habitat