Wetlands support extraordinary bird diversity; their loss eliminates habitat for millions of birds and the ecosystem services they provide.
Wetland drainage eliminates feeding and breeding habitat for millions of birds including cranes, herons, waders, and ducks. Climate change is reducing wetland water availability in many regions. Remaining wetland birds face hunting pressure, lead poisoning from shot pellets, and disturbance during nesting. Wetland conservation protects both biodiversity and individual animal welfare.