Salmon, catfish, trout, bass, and perch live in lakes. Lake char and lake sturgeon exist only in rivers and lakes, but eels and salmon can dwell in freshwater and saltwater. Lake fish feed other species in the ecosystem.
Semi-aquatic rodents live in lakes. Beavers use boulders, branches, and other vegetation to create wetlands for other species. Beavers live in North American lakes and Eurasia.
Swans are the world's largest flying bird. In lakes and marshes, they use their long necks to reach submerged plants. Swans are widespread worldwide, and many cultures' folklore features the bird.
Herons are nomadic and live in lakes worldwide. Herons can't swim and hunt in shallow water like other lakebirds. Herons live in cooler regions, but most species prefer tropical lakes.
Many snails have gills and can stay most of entire life underwater, whereas others have lungs and must surface for breath. Lake snails eat plants and algae, but they may also devour bugs and animals.
Semiaquatic minks with webbed feet can swim fast across lakes. Minks hide in forests or abandoned lake environments. Minks eat fish, frogs, amphibians, muskrats, and other small mammals in lake settings.
Many bat species seek protection around lakes, despite being cave-dwellers. Bats are nocturnal and feed on flying insects like mosquitoes at night. Bats drink from lakes.
Geese are waterfowl that live around lakes. Lakes provide food and shelter for geese. A skein of geese in the air is called a gaggle on the water.
These carnivorous mammals hunt in rivers and lakes. Otters consume fish but also frogs and crayfish. Otters float on their backs when not hunting.