Wildlife
As a "Class A" stream fish in the Kishwaukee thrive in a sediment free environment. Class A is denoted by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), the IDNR samples fish populations at stream sites throughout the state. Streams and rivers are then classified based upon the presence of pollution and silt intolerant species of fish. A designation of Class A describes a stream where a significant number of the species of fish are silt intolerant. It identifies a unique aquatic resource and ecosystem which is comparable to a stream with no human interference in its history.
The Kishwaukee River watershed is home to 28 endangered, threatened or watch-listed species. Some examples include Iowa darter, sandhill crane, yellow-headed blackbird, black tern, speckled alder, mulberry wing butterfly, Blanding's turtle, and the spiked mussel.
Read more about this topic: Kishwaukee River
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