Caleb M, journalist

Salt marshes are among the most important ecosystems on Earth. They play an important role in the aquatic food web and protect inland areas from flooding by absorbing water. They are also inhabited by many creatures: crustaceans, fish, rodents and birds, to name a few. The birds in particular are fascinating, and their unique characteristics clearly display the natural wonder not far from many coastal cities. Three birds in particular, all a common sight in many coastal areas of North America, demonstrate this well.