Mummichogs (Fundulus heteroclitus) are very common in estuaries particularly near tidal marshes and in shallow coastal waters.  They can also be found in low salinity stream mouths and fresh water sources that drain into salt marshes.  During the winter these fish burrow into the mud on the bottom or marsh pools or move into deeper water near shore.  They eat a variety of small invertebrates, fish eggs and detritus.  Females lay their sticky eggs in high marsh near the high tide level among the algae, shells, leaves and sand during the highest tides in late spring and summer.  Eggs typically hatch two weeks later during the next spring tide.  These eggs are an important food source for shore birds like herons, terns and egrets.  Crabs and larger fish will also feed on mummichogs.  The lifespan of this fish is a couple of years.