What is the River Habitat Like?

From Canada to Long Island Sound, a vast network of tiny streams joining larger streams becomes the 36 major tributaries that flow into the Connecticut River. The waters themselves are habitats for many species of fish. Freshwater mussels, worms and insects live in the river bottom. Beaver and otter live in the rivers and mink and raccoons forage along the banks. Eagles and kingfishers hunt fish and nest along the rivers. In early spring, migrating songbirds hunt insects here.

Everything flows downstream. Trees and shrubs along the banks that shade and cool the water, drop leaves and bits of branches that "feed" the riverine food chain.

"The streams and rivers of North America are home to nearly 300 species of freshwater pearly mussels (unionoids). However, the destruction of these habitats by dams, channelization, erosion and pollution has left many of these amazing mollusks on the brink of extinction. Presently 69 unionoids are on the U.S. endangered species list." (Source: Unio Gallery at SMSU)

Learn about one of the endangered inhabitants of the Connecticut River.