Aquatic Habitats

The perennial stream, pond and wetlands on this site provide breeding and feeding sites for many animals. A variety of habitats come together here to meet the needs of many amphibians, reptiles, birds, invertebrates and mammals. Vegetation in wetland areas is also important for stream stabilization and water quality.

Seasonal pools are one of the critical aquatic habitats here at Prairie Ridge. These pools fill with water in the fall and winter but dry up during the summer, making them inhospitable for fish. The lack of these predators makes them good breeding habitats for salamanders, frogs and a variety of invertebrates.

The permanent pond is an important habitat for native fish, turtles and fish-tolerant amphibians. It also serves as refuge for waterfowl, with shoreline and native wetland plants that attract birds and other wildlife.