On a Saturday morning in February, biologist and naturalist Jim Siegel, Ph.D. introduced a full and engaged audience to the many wild residents of Town Run. His beautiful and informative program highlighted the incredible diversity of life that depends on this small but vital watershed.
Through photos, stories, and scientific insight, Dr. Siegel featured a range of species—both small and large—including insects, reptiles, amphibians, and birds that make their home in or along the Run. From creatures often overlooked to those more easily recognized, the presentation brought attention to the complex web of life supported by healthy stream systems.
A Closer Look at Town Run’s Wildlife
The program explored how habitat restoration and protection efforts along Town Run are helping support a variety of species, including:
- Dragonflies and Damselflies
- Crawfish and Amphipods
- Snapping turtles and garter snakes
- Acadian flycatchers and wood thrush
- Two species of salamanders- Eastern Red-backed Salamander and Red Salamander
These species rely on clean water, healthy streambanks, and intact surrounding habitat to reproduce and raise their young. Their presence is a strong indicator of the overall health of the watershed.
Why Biodiversity Matters
Dr. Siegel emphasized how biodiversity reflects the health of a stream ecosystem. Each species plays a role in maintaining balance within the watershed, and even small changes in water quality or habitat can have significant impacts.
Participants learned how these species interact within the watershed and why protecting water quality and habitat is essential not only for wildlife, but for the broader community as well.
Explore and Observe
As you spend time near Town Run, keep your eyes open. Whether you’re walking along the stream, participating in a cleanup, or simply enjoying the outdoors, there are countless opportunities to observe these species in their natural habitat.
Presentation Slides & Resources
If you missed the program—or would like to explore it further—you can view the presentation slides and additional resources below:
Click Here to View the PowerPoint Presentation
This program served as a reminder that even a small stream like Town Run supports a rich and vibrant ecosystem—and that protecting it helps ensure these species continue to thrive for generations to come.
