Leech Feeding Behavior

Abstract

In 2009 and 2010, we surveyed the leeches in wetlands within the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Reservation and on surrounding tribal land. Different families and species of leeches have different feeding behaviors. Some leech are scavengers and some are parasites of fish and other organisms. During the survey process and while maintaining the leeches in the laboratory, we have observed some interesting feeding behaviors, including cannibalistic behaviors.