On the 2nd of February it is World Wetlands Day!
As their name suggests, Wetlands are environments that are wet for most or all of the time, there are inland wetlands which include peatland, marshes, lakes and rivers; and coastal wetlands that include mangroves, salt marshes and mudflats. Sadly, 90% of global wetlands have deteriorated in varying ways since the 1700’s which is an alarming statistic.
Benefits of Wetlands:
- Biodiversity hotspots- Wetlands are capable of providing habitats and resources for multiple mammal, bird, reptile, invertebrate, amphibian, and fish species, this makes them incredibly ecologically diverse spaces
- Water quality - They are able to improve water quality through natural filtration processes and can store carbon making them very beneficial for the climate
- Flood mitigation- Wetlands are natural sponges capable of soaking and storing vast quantities of flood water. Coastal wetlands are also highly effective at protecting coastal communities from storm surges
- Migratory birds - Visiting birds rely heavily on wetlands for the survival of their species, these areas provide essential resources for them and allow them to migrate in stages meaning they can rest and ‘refuel’ before their next leg of the journey. They also rely on Wetlands for nesting and breeding.
- Bonus benefits- These areas are incredibly picturesque and can also provide ample opportunities for recreational activities such as bird watching, wildlife photography and nature walks. Enabling people to connect with natural spaces helps to boost engagement with our natural world and in turn helps people to understand how beneficial they are
This World Wetland Day, get involved with the celebrations! Visit your local Wetland, sign up for a volunteer group or learn more about these fantastic ecosystems. Visit the Wildfowl and Wetland Trust (WWT) website to find out more about the amazing work this organisation is doing to protect, preserve and restore these vital spaces.
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