Wetland birds including herons, egrets, ducks, and coots depend on wetland habitats that are threatened by drainage, pollution, and recreational pressure.
Waterbirds entangled in fishing line experience prolonged suffering, often dying slowly from injuries or starvation. Lead poisoning causes progressive neurological damage in swans and ducks before death. Wetland drainage and degradation removes the habitat that birds need to feed, rest, and breed. Protecting and restoring wetlands while addressing pollution from fishing tackle provides direct welfare benefits to waterbird populations.