--- title: Why are wetlands so full of life? | Unique Places to Save description: Explore the vibrant life in wetlands, their vital role in biodiversity, and how Unique Places to Save is working to protect these essential ecosystems. image: https://uniqueplacestosave.org/hubfs/wetland%20with%20birds.jpg --- [![Unique Places to Save logo](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/hs-fs/hubfs/logo%20horizontal-1.png?width=1254&height=380&name=logo%20horizontal-1.png "Unique Places to Save logo")](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/) - [PROJECTS](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/projects) - SERVICES - [FOR MITIGATION BANKERS](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/conservation-mitigation) - [FOR LAND MANAGERS](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/land-planners-managers) - [FOR LANDOWNERS](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/conservation-for-landowners) - [FOR RESTORATION PARTNERS](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/dam-removals) - ABOUT - [OUR GOALS](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/our-goals) - [OUR VALUES](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/our-values) - [OUR TEAM](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/team) - [CAREERS](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/careers) - [CONTACT US](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/contact) - UPDATES - [CONSERVATION EASEMENTS](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/tag/conservation-easements) - [MITIGATION BANKING](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/tag/mitigation-banking) - [WORKING LANDS](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/tag/working-lands) - [RIVERS, WETLANDS & DAMS](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/tag/rivers-wetlands-dams) - [CONSERVATION & DEVELOPMENT](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/tag/conservation-and-development) - [CONSERVATION STORIES](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/tag/conservation-stories) - [ORGANIZATION NEWS](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/tag/organization-news) - [ALL POSTS](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news) [Donate](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/wetland-keepers) [Donate](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/wetland-keepers) This is a search field with an auto-suggest feature attached. - There are no suggestions because the search field is empty. ![wetland with birds](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/hubfs/wetland%20with%20birds.jpg) # Why are wetlands so full of life? Madilyn Deifell - October 2026 ![](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/hubfs/raw_assets/public/unique-places-theme/images/sep-1-0.png) This fall, we are pleased to share a blog from Madilyn, who is working with us as a Conservation Intern through a collaborative effort with [UNC-Chapel Hill's EcoStudio](https://ecostudio.unc.edu/). The internship at Unique Places to Save enables students to gain hands-on conservation experience as part of their career development. The protection of biodiversity is an important part of the work at Unique Places to Save. Some of the most biodiverse ecosystems in the world could be in your own neighborhood: wetlands! Wetlands are [ecosystems distinguished by depth, duration, and frequency of flooding](https://www.wetlandsconservancy.org/whats-a-wetland) on the surface or within the root zone. The presence of water influences the types of soils and vegetation supported. Wetlands often serve as transitional[zones between terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems](https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/wetland/). Other wetlands are considered isolated, though these are typically influenced by groundwater. The dynamic nature of wetland ecosystems results in a variety of habitat for a wide diversity of organisms, from terrestrial to aquatic species. Although wetlands only cover [6% of the Earth’s land mass](https://www.fws.gov/story/2023-04/why-healthy-wetlands-are-vital-protecting-endangered-species), they provide habitat for [40% of plant and animal species](https://www.fws.gov/story/2023-04/why-healthy-wetlands-are-vital-protecting-endangered-species). Many of these species depend on wetlands for all or part of their life cycles. This results in a large diversity of species relying on wetlands for breeding grounds, nursery habitat, stopover sites during migration, and opportunities for foraging and refuge. ## What types of wetlands are there? Wetlands are a prominent feature of many landscapes but take many shapes and forms. There are three main types of wetlands: swamps, marshes, and peatlands. Each is characterized by their [climate, flooding patterns, hydric soils, and vegetation](https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/wetland/) adapted to wet conditions. The most common type of wetland in North America are non-tidal marshes, [characterized by their saturated soil conditions and herbaceous vegetation. Non-tidal marshes are often located along the boundaries of lakes and streams](https://www.epa.gov/wetlands/classification-and-types-wetlands#undefined), or low-lying areas with poor drainage. Wetlands are dynamic ecosystems that vary depending on their location and the changing conditions of their environment. The majority of wetlands, however, are highly productive due to their water and nutrient availability. This productivity and resource availability contributes to the immense diversity of wildlife seen across wetland types. ## What makes wetlands such productive habitats? The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency describes wetlands as[“biological supermarkets” and “comparable to rain forests and coral reefs”](https://www.epa.gov/wetlands/how-do-wetlands-function-and-why-are-they-valuable) in their productivity. There are many types of wetlands and a range of organisms that call it “home,” but what makes these ecosystems so productive? - ### High concentration of nutrients Wetlands are often nutrient-rich ecosystems. Water flows into wetlands from nearby streams and lakes, where it slows down and settles. This process brings an influx of nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, into the wetland environment. Additionally, due to slow rates of decomposition, large amounts of organic matter can build up and be stored within wetlands. . The concentration of organic matter and nutrients feed the wetlands’ microscopic bacterial communities. These communities facilitate rich soil for thriving plant communities, contributing to the productivity of the wetland. - ### Abundance of sunlight Wetlands are often characterized by their shallow water levels. Because of this shallow water, sunlight easily penetrates through the water column and reaches the vegetation below. This penetration of sunlight supports the productivity of diverse plant life in these environments. - ### Water availability Wetlands are essential water sources. [These ecosystems trap and store water, acting as natural reservoirs](https://www.sariverauthority.org/blog-news/the-wonders-of-wetlands-and-why-we-need-them/). During this process,[wetlands filter sediments and absorb many pollutants](https://www.nps.gov/subjects/wetlands/why.htm) from the water. The availability of purified water supports a diversity of animals and plants that rely on the water to survive and thrive.   ## What kinds of wildlife depend on wetlands?  Wetlands provide habitat for a variety of wildlife throughout their life cycles, including amphibians, fish, and migratory birds. This habitat is important for threatened and endangered species, as [nearly half of threatened or endangered species in the U.S.](https://www.epa.gov/wetlands/why-are-wetlands-important) use wetlands at some point in their lives. Nearly [half of North American birds](https://www.fws.gov/wetlands-month/essential-habitats) use wetlands as nesting or feeding grounds throughout their lifetime, but that is not the only way species use wetland ecosystems.  ## How do these species use wetlands? The productivity of wetlands supports a diverse range of wildlife. These species use wetlands in a variety of ways: ### Habitat Wetlands can be a critical habitat for wildlife at all or part of their life cycles. For example, Pacific salmon rely on coastal wetlands as critical habitat[in their life transition from freshwater streams to open ocean](https://www.ducks.ca/stories/biodiversity/why-walleye-bass-and-salmon-depend-on-wetlands-more-than-you-think/). Wetland habitat often provides a safe, nutrient-rich place to live with an abundance of food sources. ### Nursery habitat Wetlands provide suitable conditions for wildlife reproduction and juvenile growth. For instance, ephemeral ponds, or ponds that are only saturated part of the year, are [majority predator-free environments](https://www.pringlenc.org/amphibians-wetlands) that keep young amphibians, like American Bullfrog tadpoles, safe from larger organisms. Other wetlands, such as marshes, have a dense vegetative structure that allows juvenile organisms to hide effectively from larger predators. ### Migration Wetlands are important stopover sites for migratory birds. With consistent water availability and rich food sources, birds often use wetlands as a refuge habitat as they rest during their seasonal movements. Mallards are[a bird species that use wetlands as stopover sites during their migration](https://www.ducks.org/conservation/waterfowl-research-science/understanding-waterfowl-tracking-the-mallard-migration), using the productive and safe refuge to recharge during their journey. ### Food source Wetlands often provide essential food sources for a wide diversity of organisms. Wading birds, like the Virginia Rail, are an example of a species that depends on wetlands for food sources. Specifically, Virginia Rails [forage for insects among the vegetation of its wetland habitat.](https://www.audubon.org/field-guide/bird/virginia-rail) Globally, wetlands support a vast diversity of animal and plant species, including [more than a million threatened species.](https://www.wetlands.org/biodiversity/) These species rely on wetlands for habitat, nurseries, stopover sites during migration, and sources of food. The distinguishing characteristics of wetlands, and their generally high rates of productivity, help explain why wetlands are so full of life.  Wetlands sustain 40% of all species while covering just a fraction of the earth, yet they remain among the most threatened habitats on the planet. Unique Places to Save works directly with landowners, communities, and conservation partners to protect, restore, and permanently safeguard these vital ecosystems before they disappear. --- *Your support funds the acquisition and long-term stewardship needed to keep these biological supermarkets intact for migrating birds, native wildlife, and the water systems our communities rely on. **Support our wetland conservation projects today by donating or partnering with us to protect land in your region.***    About the Author![madilyn deifell](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/hs-fs/hubfs/madilyn%20deifell.jpg?width=208&height=208&name=madilyn%20deifell.jpg) As a senior undergraduate at UNC-Chapel Hill, Madilyn applies her scholarly background in public policy, environmental studies, and geography to contribute to the stewardship of vital conservation easement areas through in-field stewardship efforts that enhance natural and community protections.   ![wetland with birds](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/hubfs/wetland%20with%20birds.jpg) [Rivers, Wetlands & Dams](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/tag/rivers-wetlands-dams) Madilyn Deifell, October 2026 ### [Why are wetlands so full of life?](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/why-are-wetlands-so-full-of-life) This fall, we are pleased to share a blog from Madilyn, who is working with us as a Conservation Intern through a collaborative effort with UNC-Chapel Hill's EcoStudio. The internship at Unique Places to Save enables students to gain hands-... ![Blackberries ripening on a bramble at the edge of a young pine forest.](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/hubfs/photo%20of%20poes%20landing%20conservation%20easement.jpg) [Rivers, Wetlands & Dams](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/tag/rivers-wetlands-dams) Michael Scisco, October 2026 ### [Poe's Landing | Conservation Mitigation Easement](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/poes-landing-conservation-mitigation-easement) Total Acres 321 Project Year 2026 Located in York County, South Carolina Covering approximately 320.69 acres within the Upper Broad River Basin, the easement safeguards critical aquatic corridors including Bullock Creek, Bells Creek, 11 unn... ![A slow stream winds through an open wetland meadow lined with cattails and shrubs, with a band of trees on the horizon under a golden evening sky.](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/hubfs/image%20of%20wetlands%20conservation.jpg) [Rivers, Wetlands & Dams](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/tag/rivers-wetlands-dams) Michael Scisco, September 2026 ### [What Happens After a Mitigation Bank is Complete?](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/mitigation-bank-long-term-management) Regulatory closeout is a major milestone for a mitigation bank. It confirms that the required restoration or enhancement work has been completed, performance standards have been met, and the formal monitoring and maintenance period can end.... ![Pink survey flagging tied to shrubs along a marsh-lined creek on the Point Farm conservation easement, with a weathered stump standing in the still water.](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/hubfs/point%20farm%20conservation%20mitigation%20easement.jpg) [Rivers, Wetlands & Dams](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/tag/rivers-wetlands-dams) Mandi Taylor, September 2026 ### [The Impossibility of Capturing Nature in a PDF](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/baseline-documentation-report) Every profession has the gap between what the job looks like on paper and what actually happens on the ground. In land conservation, that divide can be neatly summarized by one specific, legal document: the Baseline Documentation Report (BD... [![](https://widgets.guidestar.org/prod/v1/pdp/transparency-seal/9341350/svg)](https://app.candid.org/profile/9341350/unique-places-to-save-46-2076094/?pkId=e9b6f29d-825a-42e5-88cd-e7520d3fe801) [Brand Guidelines](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/brand)   |  [Contact](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/contact)   |   [Donate](https://giving.uniqueplacestosave.org/page/donate) [Privacy Policy](https://app.termly.io/policy-viewer/policy.html?policyUUID=9caa4f9b-7b49-4288-a4b5-5c45abbe3ab8)  | [Terms & Conditions](https://app.termly.io/policy-viewer/policy.html?policyUUID=3d5e9999-168e-4629-86bc-82c671729312) | Cookie Consent © Unique Places to Save [Follow us on LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/company/uniqueplaces2save/) [Follow us on Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/uniqueplacestosave) ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Madilyn Deifell", "url" : "https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/author/madilyn-deifell" }, "dateModified" : "2026-10-22T17:18:01.758Z", "datePublished" : "2026-10-22T17:17:32.000Z", "headline" : "Why are wetlands so full of life?", "image" : [ "https://uniqueplacestosave.org/hubfs/wetland%20with%20birds.jpg" ], "mainEntityOfPage" : { "@id" : "https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/why-are-wetlands-so-full-of-life", "@type" : "WebPage" }, "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://uniqueplacestosave.org/hubfs/logo%20horizontal-1.png" }, "name" : "Unique Places to Save" } } ``` ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@id" : "https://uniqueplacestosave.org/#org", "@type" : "NGO", "address" : { "@type" : "PostalAddress", "addressCountry" : "US", "addressLocality" : "Sanford", "addressRegion" : "NC", "postalCode" : "27330", "streetAddress" : "500 Westover Drive #33037" }, "alternateName" : "UP2S", "areaServed" : "United States", "description" : "Unique Places to Save restores and conserves natural and working lands and aquatic resources through conservation protections and sustainable natural resource restoration and management.", "email" : "info@uniqueplacestosave.org", "foundingDate" : "2014", "logo" : "https://uniqueplacestosave.org/hubfs/unique%20places%20to%20save%20non%20profit%20land%20trust.png", "name" : "Unique Places to Save", "nonprofitStatus" : "Nonprofit501c3", "sameAs" : [ "https://www.linkedin.com/company/uniqueplaces2save/", "https://www.facebook.com/uniqueplacestosave", "https://landtrustalliance.org/land-trusts/explore/unique-places-to-save-nc", "https://www.charitynavigator.org/ein/462076094", "https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/462076094", "https://www.guidestar.org/profile/46-2076094", "https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q140773865" ], "taxID" : "46-2076094", "telephone" : "919-428-2040", "url" : "https://uniqueplacestosave.org" } ``` ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@id" : "https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/why-are-wetlands-so-full-of-life#article", "@type" : "Article", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Madilyn Deifell", "url" : "https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/author/madilyn-deifell" }, "dateModified" : "2026-10-22", "datePublished" : "2026-10-22", "headline" : "Why are wetlands so full of life?", "image" : "https://uniqueplacestosave.org/hubfs/wetland%20with%20birds.jpg", "publisher" : { "@id" : "https://uniqueplacestosave.org/#org" }, "url" : "https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/why-are-wetlands-so-full-of-life" } ```