Wetlands attract wide variety of species

摘要

IN February, a story emerged in Illinois when two unusual-looking birds were seen foraging in a recently restored floodplain. They were migrating whooping cranes—one of the most endangered wetland-dependant species in North America. It was big news,but there's more to it than j ust the endangered birds. While the initial photo taken of the cranes is extremely exciting, a closer look shows an even bigger story. While the cranes were searching for food, mallard ducks also were feeding in shallower water. Teal, shoveler and pintail ducks were occupying the shallowest areas. This is significant because the wetland had already begun to support a diverse group of bird species, each with specific needs.