Wetlands Habitat: Rivers and Streams

Rivers and streams are bodies of water which are constantly moving. Rivers tend to move slower have warmer waters than the rapidly moving streams. Streams normally feed the rivers and the rain feeds the streams -- an endless cycle. There are rapidly moving streams, which are associated with mountainous areas, and the slower moving streams which have a slight gradient. Most streams have slippery rocks that are coated with algae.

Rivers and streams are bounded with mature trees, hollow trees, grasses, weeds, bushes, ferns and wildflowers.

While not as rich in waterbirds as lakes or ponds and marshes, rivers provide homes for several other species such as the Common Merganser, herons, sandpipers and gulls. Along wooded riverbanks, you can find Northern Orioles, warblers, vireos and wrens.

**Birds of Rivers and Streams**
(Not all birds are listed)
Birds	Breeding/Nest Facts	Plant Food
American Dipper	Breeds by streams. Nest is raised overlooking water on a bank, behind waterfall or waterside tree.	(Aquatic insects)
Bank Swallow	Breeds near water. Nest is located in a burrow on a vertical bank or cliff.	(Insects)
Eastern Phoebe	Breeds around farms. Nest located near running water, under a bridge or some other type of overhang.	Poison Ivy, Sassafras, Sumac
Louisiana Waterthrush	Breeds along wooded rivers and streams. Nest in a crevice on bank of stream or cliff over water.	(Insects)
Semipalmated Sandpiper	Breeds near streams and rivers. Nest is a shallow hollow concealed by vegetation.	Bulrush, Sedge, Pondweed
Warbling Vireo	Breeds by lakes and streams. Nest located high up on tree branch.	Sumac, Bunchberry, Pokeweed