Science Name: | Pogonias cromis |
Other Names: | drum, sea drum, common drum, oyster cracker, banded drum, butterfly drum |
Ideal Temp: | 70 to 75 |
World Record: | 113 lbs. 1 oz, Delaware |
Environment: | inshore, coastal |
Techniques: | medium tackle |
Range: | Eastern United States |
Description
Habitat
The preferred habitat is coastal waters including bays, sounds, and inlets where
salinities range from near fresh to sea strength. They are commonly found near
bridges, piers and other manmade structures.
Feeding Habits
Black drum feed on the bottom, aided in their search for food by the chin
barbels that serve as feelers. Food items include clams, mussels, oysters,
crabs, worms, and some fishes. Strong throat teeth, pharyngeals, are capable of
crushing shells of clams, oysters, and crabs to make them easier to digest.