creek

A creek is a natural watercourse that is typically smaller than a river and larger than a rivulet or brook, though the exact size can vary by region. Creeks are usually fed by rainfall, groundwater, and surface runoff, and they may connect to larger streams, rivers, or lakes. They can be perennial, with water year-round, or intermittent, flowing only after rain or snowmelt. Creeks are characterized by a defined bed and banks and often support riparian vegetation along their margins.

Terminology varies by region. In North America, creek generally refers to a small to mid-sized stream, while terms such as brook or stream may describe smaller or differently perceived channels. In parts of the United Kingdom and other Commonwealth countries, creeks can denote coastal inlets or tidal channels, whereas inland watercourses are more commonly called streams or brooks. Place names frequently preserve the local usage and history of a particular watercourse.

Hydrology and ecology. The flow regime of a creek depends on climate, geology, and land cover. Headwater creeks may be spring-fed and clear, while downstream sections transport water, sediment, and nutrients to larger water bodies. Riparian zones along creeks harbor diverse plants and animals and help stabilize banks and filter runoff. Human activities such as damming, channel modification, and pollution can alter flow, temperature, and habitat quality.

Human use and cultural significance. Creeks have influenced settlement, agriculture, and transportation by providing water resources and corridors. They are common targets for conservation and restoration efforts aimed at improving hydrological connectivity, water quality, and wildlife habitat within a watershed.