River Wildlife - Spicebush Overlook

River Wildlife - Spicebush Overlook. . , In addition to being an energy source and a means of transportation for generations of people, the Bronx River also serves as a refuge for a great variety of plant and animal species., The Bronx River flows 23 miles from Valhalla, near the Kensico Reservoir in Westchester County in New York, to its mouth at the East River. It is the only freshwater river in New York City. Many species of animals that inhabit forest stream and river habitats can be found thriving in and along the Bronx River. A variety of bird species makes the river their home, including wood ducks, herons, and egrets Common snapping turtles, eastern painted turtles, and 17 different species of fish have been sighted in the river., In recent decades, conservation efforts led by organizations, including the Bronx River Alliance, along the length of the Bronx River have led to an increase in diversity of animals in its waters. In 2006 a beaver was spotted building a lodge in the river near the Bronx Zoo, and in later years upriver here at the Garden. This was the first beaver found in the wild in New York City in more than 200 years. Beavers are generally nocturnal, so it is unlikely that you will see one during your visit, but look around for other river-dwellers.