［Objective］This study aimed to analyze the channel characteristics in a typical small watershed in the black soil region in northeast China，and to explore the methods for distinguishing gullies and stream channels. ［Methods］A small watershed（14.59 km²）in the typical black soil region of Bin County，Heilongjiang Province， was selected as the study area. Based on drone imagery and the high-resolution digital elevation model，the Strahler's stream order method was used to classify permanent channels.［Results］The channel density in the watershed was 3.87 km/km²，and the number of channels in the small watershed decreased exponentially as the stream order increased. The proportion of level 1 channels was the highest（64.60%），while the length and area of level 2 channels accounted for the largest proportion，37.62% and 29.57%，respectively. Channels at levels 4 and above had significantly greater width，length，and area than those at lower levels. Channel depth gradually increased from level 4 to level 6. The cross sections of channels at levels 1 to 3 were primarily "V"-shaped or "V"- "U"-shaped. All level 1 to 3 channels were classified as erosion gullies，and level 5 and 6 channels were classified as steam channels，while level 4 channels exhibited characteristics of both.［Conclusion］The Strahler stream order method is applicable for classifying channels in small watersheds of black soil regions. Erosion gullies and stream channels show distinct morphological differences. The findings provide a reference for erosion classification and management.