Impact of Wetland Destruction on Wildlife

Consequences for Wetland Animals

• Loss of Shelter: Animals may not find safe alternatives; nearby wetlands are also disappearing.
• Loss of Food: Wetlands provide plants, insects, fish; destruction leads to starvation/malnutrition.
• Reproductive Failure: Breeding/nesting sites vanish, causing population declines.
• Overall Survival Threat: Combined habitat, food, and reproduction loss jeopardizes species.

Examples

• California clapper rail declined dramatically due to salt marsh loss.
• Wetland destruction degrades water quality in nearby rivers/lakes (loss of natural filtration).