How do wetlands support birds?

Wetland ecosystems pack a lot of food into one place. They also offer safe nesting areas and important stopovers for birds that live nearby year-round and for birds that travel through on a schedule.

Along the edges of the main reservoir, the water is shallow and rich. Small fish, amphibians, and aquatic insects are common there. Wading birds such as painted storks and purple herons feed in these margins regularly. The reeds around the water provide extra cover. Partly submerged dead trees add more hiding spots. These spots stay out of reach for many land predators that hunt on the ground.