Oxbow Lakes

Example

The River Moy

1. Meanders

As a river flows through a landscape, it creates meanders, which are the large bends that develop over time.

2. Erode & settle

The faster water on the outside of a bend erodes the bank, while slower water on the inside allows sediments to settle.

3. Change shape

Over time, the meanders grow larger and the river starts to change shape.

4. Cut through

During heavy rain or flooding, the river can cut through the narrow part of a meander, creating a new, straighter channel.

5. Isolated bend

The isolated bend then becomes a crescent-shaped lake, known as an oxbow lake.

6. Deposition

An oxbow lake is formed by the deposition of sediment in a river, particularly in areas where the river has curves or bends.

7. Drop off

River depositon is the process where a river drops off sediments like sand and silt as it slows down.

8. Shallow

Oxbow lakes are often shallow and collect sediment over time, making them less deep.

9. Important habitats

These lakes provide important habitats for wildlife, including various fish, birds and plants.

10. Great example

Oxbow lakes are a great example of how rivers change their shape and the landscape around them over time.