no photo — written note
Animals
The most painted sunfish: orange belly, blue wavy cheek lines, red ear spot.
Field facts
HabitatWeedy lakes, ponds, quiet backwaters
RangeStatewide, best north
When to lookSpring through autumn
StatusSecure (Indiana DNR / IUCN Red List)
Look-alikesBluegill, Longear Sunfish
Field note: Its molar-like throat plates crush pond snails.
Lesson
Watching responsibly
Photograph in a water-filled hand and return quickly.
Your records
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