Today is world rivers day, so I thought to celebrate I would right a quick post showing some of Britain’s river wildlife.
Perhaps the most colourful bird in Britain, the kingfisher, is usually found perched by rivers, hunting fish.
Also hunting fish, heron can be found at and in rivers.
Salmon rely on clean rivers to breed, migrating up river from the sea and jumping waterfalls to reach their breeding areas near the river source.
Rivers are home to a large variety of invertebrates. On the surface in eddies and slower stretches large pond skaters can be found.
Beautiful demoiselles fly around their optimum breeding areas.
While their nymphs grow underwater.
In the bottom sediment alderfly larvae hunt for prey.
Mayfly larvae burrow into the sediment to set up home.
Under the stones flatworms can be found sliding around.
And predatory hairy cranefly larve use their large jaws to catch prey.
Clinging mayfly larvae use their strong legs and streamlined shape to hang on in fast flowing stretches
While our rivers are home to many species and some of our dirtier rivers have increased in water quality and biodiversity, our very best quality rivers have declined. In fact in England there are no no rivers of the highest quality. To find truly clean water a trip to Scotland is required, where you can find species like the Orange striped stonefly, which is endemic to Britain.
You can find out more about world rivers day here
Fabulous piece Neil – very ably illustrated with your fantastic underwater shots … stunning!
thanks Pauline 🙂