The rivers, wetlands, and shores of the Pacific Northwest are home to many fascinating creatures. Here, we’ve compiled spotlights on some of our favorite local water-dwellers.
Importance of Clean Water for Amphibians
This post is part of our collaboration with Portland State University and Dr. Alida Cantor’s…
American Coot
Is that a duck or a chicken? Actually, it’s an American Coot! The most aquatic…
Water Striders
Water striders are thin, long-legged insects that use surface tension to walk on the water’s…
Pigeon Guillemots
Pigeon Guillemots, known as PIGU, are charismatic seabirds that are true gems of the marine…
South Resident Orcas
In the eastern North Pacific, there are three populations of resident killer whales: Alaska residents,…
The Difference Between Rainbow Trout and Steelhead Trout
Rainbow trout and steelhead trout are actually the same species. They have the exact same…
Gooseneck barnacle
What barnacle resembles a goose? The gooseneck barnacle! Common around tidepools, they are often found…
The Humble Caddisfly Helps Clean Our Rivers
Have you ever noticed small tubes of pebbles in the river? Those are the cocoons…
Beavers Help Slow Wildfires
You may already know that beavers have many positive impacts on their local river, but…
Water Ouzel or The American Dipper
The American Dipper, also known as a Water Ouzel, is unique in being one of…
Aggregating Anemones
The Oregon Coast is known for its breathtaking views, but zoom in to the tidepools…
Good Things Come From Small Places
I hear this line often when I’m out working in a stream: “There’s no fish…