What is a stream?

Land Features

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by Kate Simmons >> more about the author

Brook. Gill. Lick. Rill. Believe it or not, these are all other names for a stream! And there are more where that came from, such as run, branch, and crick! A stream is a steadily-moving body of water. Streams flow along a path within its banks—the land on either side.

Are all streams the same size? Absolutely not! In fact, you may already know a thing or two about small- or medium-sized streams called creeks and larger streams called rivers.

Streams carry water from the land to the sea, an important job in the water cycle, which keeps our water moving from the earth’s surface to the sky, then back down as rain. Streams are also important pathways for creatures that are migrating, such as salmon swimming to the ocean!

What types of creatures would you find living in or near a stream? Streams are home to many fish, such as trout and minnows. Amphibians, such as frogs and salamanders, and reptiles like turtles and snakes may also call streams home. Snails, worms, and insects, such as beetles are a few of the many creatures you can find in a stream habitat.