Wild river, wild critters: floating down the Delaware

During a recent kayaking trip down the river, my friends and I spotted half a dozen eagles and about the same number of great blue herons. We saw and heard a number of different species of small birds, saw large clusters of damselflies on floating sticks, and as an added bonus, watched a fisherman boat and release a muskellunge. There’s no question about it, floating down the Delaware is a great way to spot wildlife.

The river’s relatively pristine water and shoreline ensure a great biological diversity. Mammals such as otters and muskrats live on the shore. A great variety of birds frequent the river. Migratory species such as green-winged teals and buffleheads use the river to rest and feed during their long journey. Big snapping turtles ply the slower stretches of river, and several species of frogs and toads can be seen (and heard) on the riverbank.

The river is low this time of year, but summer deluges can change the river conditions in a short time, so check the weather forecast, wear your life jacket and enjoy the beauty of the Delaware.

More information on boating on the Delaware, including boating safety and rental locations, can be found at nps.gov/upde/planyourvisit/boating.htm.