Rio Nutria (Zuni River tributary) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Rio Nutria |
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|---|---|
| Native name | Tsediijih, Taiakwin |
| Other name(s) | Nutria Creek Arroyo de las Nutrias, Rio de las Nutrias |
| Country | United States |
| State | New Mexico |
| Region | McKinley County |
| City | Nutria |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | McKenzie Ridge in the Cibola National Forest 8,386 ft (2,556 m) 36°36′10″N 106°20′20″W / 36.60278°N 106.33889°W |
| River mouth | Confluence with the Rio Pescado Zuni Indian Reservation 6,526 ft (1,989 m) 35°06′39″N 108°42′56″W / 35.11083°N 108.71556°W |
| Basin features | |
| Tributaries |
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The Rio Nutria is a river in New Mexico, United States. It flows for about 32 miles (51 kilometers) towards the southwest. The river starts high up on McKenzie Ridge in the Cibola National Forest. This area is in McKinley County, New Mexico. The Rio Nutria eventually joins another river, the Rio Pescado. Together, they form the Zuni River on the Zuni Indian Reservation.
What's in a Name?
The name "Rio Nutria" comes from old Spanish words. In the 1500s and 1600s, "nutria" often meant "beaver." Today, "nutria" usually means "otter." But in parts of New Mexico, the old meaning of "beaver" still sticks around.
There are other rivers in New Mexico also called Rio Nutrias. One of them was mentioned in a diary from 1776. The diary described a "Rio de las Nutrias" where beavers built many ponds. This shows how important beavers were to the river's name.
Where Does Rio Nutria Flow?
The Rio Nutria flows into the Zuni Indian Reservation. Along its path, it fills several reservoirs. These are like big storage lakes for the river's water. The river also passes through two villages: Upper Nutria and Lower Nutria. Their native names are Tsediijih and Taiakwin. After flowing through more reservoirs, the Rio Nutria meets the Rio Pescado.
Animals of the River
The Rio Nutria is a great home for many animals. One important animal is the North American beaver (Castor canadensis). Beavers are known for building dams and creating ponds.
Many types of fish live in the Rio Nutria. Some of these include the Rio Grande chub and the Fathead minnow. You might also find the Flathead chub, Longnose dace, and White sucker. Along the riverbanks, you can see plants like the Coyote Willow.
