Swamp | Wetland Animals
There are many types of plant and animal species that live in the wetlands, as the habitat provides shelter from predators and nesting areas for birds. The water give fish and shellfish a place to spawn. Some animals may spend their entire lives in the wetlands, and other will visit to breed or raise offspring. In wetlands the ground is saturated with water or covered in standing water for parts of the year. There are many types of wetland habitats like marshes, swamps, and bogs. Over one third of the species on the United State’s Federal Endangered Species Act depend on wetlands to survive.
The most common characteristics of the animals that live in swamps include having webbed feet to help them move quickly through water environments as well as camouflage to protect themselves. Camouflage also helps them hide within their surroundings and hunt. Animals that live in swamps also can remain in the water for an extended time.
Swamp animals typically eat insects, spiders, earthworms, as well as slugs. Swamp animals usually eat the animals that fall below them in the food chain and are native to the swamp habitats. Swamp Animals often eat small fish, insects, crustaceans, and mollusks. Herbivore swamp animals eat algae, water lilies, cattails, and algae.
Wetlands help endangered species because they improve water quality and provide wildlife habitat. Wetlands are also important as they maintain ecosystem productivity, reduce coastal storm damage, and provide recreational opportunities. Wetlands are significant in the preservation of endangered species by improving water supply and providing possibilities for education.
