Many different animals live in the forests near water.
Otters, beavers, deer, herons, salamanders, snakes, alligators, frogs, turtles and many other creatures depend on forest lakes and streams for food, drink, homes and protection. In some streams, the shade of trees plays an important role in the lives of certain fish. Brook trout and salmon are sensitive to changes in water temperature. These fish will lay their eggs only in cool water. If there are no trees or other plants along stream banks, direct sunlight will heat the water so the eggs won't hatch.