What is woolly sculpin?

The woolly sculpin (Clinocottus analis) is a small fish found along the Pacific coast of North America, from Alaska to California. It typically inhabits shallow rocky intertidal zones and subtidal areas, where it feeds on small invertebrates such as crustaceans and worms.

The woolly sculpin is characterized by its woolly appearance, which is due to the numerous tiny spines covering its body. It has a flattened head and body, and typically grows to a maximum length of about 5 inches (12.7 cm).

This species is important ecologically as a prey item for larger fish and birds, and also as an indicator of ecosystem health. Like many other fish along the Pacific coast of North America, the woolly sculpin is threatened by a variety of factors including habitat loss, pollution, overfishing and climate change. Conservation efforts are underway to protect this species and its habitat.