Blog Post # 4 Edmonds Marsh

Wetlands and estuaries are the habitat of many organisms and species. They provide nutrients and food to the organisms that live there. Estuaries provide a rest spot for birds migrating.  Because there is both fresh water and salt water (according to the sign), there are tons of species of birds. They eat and rest and return on their journey. Wetlands also act as a buffer between ocean and land.       Carkeek Park has small creeks and many fish and less mud in their wetlands. Edmonds marsh has many birds and tons of water. Both parks function as a ecosystem and serve as a habitat to some of the same organisms.

            I observed a opossum at the marsh. It didn’t do much and was only there a limited about of time.  I assume it was looking for food. Once I took its picture, it ran away. Opossums are nocturnal animals that can climb trees to find food. Opossums can eat many plants, grains, nuts, snakes, mice and even dead animals. They even play dead to avoid a threat.* Opossums use the wetlands to find food. I also viewed a Cattail (typha latifolia). Hundreds grow all around the marsh. The obviously love the water. This plant provides a habitat for many birds that live there. Cattails are edible, so some organisms eat it.

            Wetland restoration in Western Washington is extremely important because of all species of plants and wildlife that live there. They need their home to continue to reproduce and thrive. The second approach seems more suitable for the Edmonds Marsh because it takes into account both invasive and native species and returns it to its original functionality.

            Honestly, I never thought much about the estuaries of the Pacific Northwest. Viewing it today demonstrated how important they are. They are such a vital part of our ecosystem. They not only provide habitats for organisms, but they are functional to humans as well.

1.     What can individuals do to protect our wetlands?

2.     What other nocturnal animals live in the estuaries?

Work Citied

*http://wdfw.wa.gov/living/opossums.html