Waterfowl: Life on Forest Lakes and Wetlands
Waterfowl, including ducks, swans, and geese, are integral to forest wetlands and lakes. These birds are not only beautiful but also crucial to aquatic ecosystems, serving as indicators of water health and playing roles in seed dispersal and pest control.
Waterfowl are often migratory, traveling great distances between breeding and wintering grounds. Their ability to adapt to various water bodies, from forested ponds to expansive wetlands, ensures their survival. Forest wetlands provide them with food such as aquatic plants, fish, and invertebrates, as well as safe nesting sites.
However, habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change threaten these birds worldwide. Conservation efforts focus on wetland restoration, the establishment of protected areas, and promoting sustainable practices to ensure the survival of waterfowl and their habitats.