Meet the Original Swimmers of the Chicago River with Shedd Aquarium

This September, Shedd Aquarium shines a spotlight on some of the other swimmers in the Chicago River – around 60 types of freshwater fishes like largemouth bass, walleye, black crappie, pumpkinseed sunfish, bluegill and channel catfish. The bustling aquatic world is just below the surface. These animals have rebounded thanks to research and restoration work, science-backed policy, and care for this vital resource on which we all depend. Yet, continued progress requires people who understand, love and ultimately protect healthy ecosystems.

Shedd Research Biologist Austin Happel, Ph.D., is tracking the movements of several fish species in the Chicago River. Through this study, he is gaining an understanding of where the fish remain or go, how the animals respond to restoration efforts, what various environmental factors might affect them and more. His findings can help better inform conservation management to support a diverse and resilient Chicago River in the future.

One surprising discovery involves a bluegill that Happel fondly calls the ‘marathon swimmer.’ On three separate days, this fish covered as much as 7.4 miles in a single day. This is the kind of distance that, scaled up to human size, is roughly equivalent to a 52-mile swim, comparable to going from Chicago’s Navy Pier to Racine, Wisconsin or St. Joseph, Michigan. Most human marathon swims cover only around 30 miles. This journey offers a deeper appreciation for the seemingly interesting life of a small sport fish that might otherwise go unnoticed by locals.

“As a scientist studying the Chicago River, I celebrate when people spend time in and around this space responsibly,” said Dr. Happel. “Something like the Chicago River Swim is proof of what’s possible when research, restoration, policy and partnerships come together to create a healthier river for the wildlife and people that depend on it.”

In addition to the research, Shedd Aquarium and partners are working to restore, rewild and reimagine the South Branch of the Chicago River. Nearly 4,500 square feet of floating wetlands have been installed along the river’s edge in Bubbly Creek, providing a place for animals to find food and shelter above and below the surface. Fishing lessons and kayak outings are also led by Shedd for community members to increase a sense of connection to the river and build outdoor skills.

Through the end of September, Shedd hosts Kayak for Conservation tours where participants paddle the North Branch of the Chicago River to learn more about innovative efforts to improve its health for wildlife — and how everyone can get involved — all while taking in the beauty of our city. Then, plan a visit to the aquarium and come face-to-face with the freshwater fish that call the region home in the Great Lakes gallery.

VISUALS: Find high-resolution visuals here: https://personal.filesanywhere.com/guest/fs?v=8e7167875d5f707c6fad&C=50. Credit: ©Shedd Aquarium