A richly illustrated resource on the natural history of freshwater streams, small rivers, and their associated habitats

The second entry in Patrick J. Lynch’s Illustrated Guide series invites nature lovers into the world of streams in the eastern United States and southeastern Canada. This authoritative guide, packed with original photos, drawings, and graphics, inventories many of the most common plants and animals thriving in and along these overlooked waterways—the Blue Dasher Dragonfly, the Red-Shouldered Hawk, the Greenside Darter, and the Cardinal Flower, just for starters.

Lynch explains the geology and evolution of streams, including the unusual southeastern “blackwater” rivers and karst streams of Florida. He outlines why understanding streams, rivers, and riverine systems is crucial to science and conservation, particularly as climate change continues to shape our environment, and describes efforts to protect and restore these surprisingly resilient landscapes.

This concise, indispensable guide is a perfect companion for hikers, anglers, birders, and boaters, as well as students and educators.

Patrick J. Lynch is an award-winning author, photographer, and artist. He is the author of numerous books, including Ponds: An Illustrated Guide and A Field Guide to the Connecticut River. He lives in North Haven, CT.