Animals That Live In Wet Lands

Wet lands are some of the most commonly overlooked natural habitats for a range of species. There is a unique biodiversity that exists in these environments, which allows a range of species to thrive. 

These include different plants, insects, and animals. Wet lands are defined as an area that is naturally flooded with water frequently or permanently. However, this can also occur seasonally. 

This can lead to a unique selection of animals that enjoy the wet conditions and undrained, hydric soil. Here is a handful of the range of animals that live in wet lands. 

Bullfrog

Firstly, bullfrogs can be found in many wet lands across the country. These amphibians love the conditions of wet lands, and prefer shallow, warmer water.

Freshwater ponds and other environments are ideal for these large amphibians to rest and mate in. 

They are known for their distinctive croaking that has been compared to a cow’s moo. This is where the name for this species comes from, and they are currently thriving in wet lands across the map. 

Bullfrogs have actually become more of an invasive species in some regions, and there is careful work that needs to be done to protect other animals in wet lands.

There is a careful balance to maintain in any natural habitat. Considering their position in the food chain, bullfrogs are certainly doing the most in wet lands. 

Zebra Swallowtail

Typically found in South-East regions, the zebra swallowtail has a distinct appearance. With black and white zebra stripes, this animal certainly stands out when it needs to.

The main source of food comes from the paw paw tree, but they usually live in freshwater marshes and wet lands. 

It is the high amount of nutrients that wet lands provide which makes it so popular for these insects. Salt and other vital nutrients are prominent in damp soil and sand.

If you have a wet land near you, then it is definitely worth looking for these stunning little creatures feeding and resting on the damp soil. 

Elk

An unexpected species to find in wet lands is the majestic elk.

Although these large creatures are mainly found in the forest, they have been known to choose more varied surroundings where the grass and plants are slightly different. 

Because of this, elk can be found in a variety of different habitats. One of these is wet lands, as they enjoy the patchy forest along the edge of forests.

Elk are generally not found in denser forest areas, and they prefer wet lands and other varied spaces for vegetation. 

River Otter

Another charming creature that enjoys the diversity of wet lands is the river otter. They are known for their mischievous nature, but otters are semiaquatic animals.

River otters are native to Northern regions, and they can be found in rivers, marshes, wet lands, ponds, and lakes. 

They love crushing their food, which is why they enjoy crayfish, clams, and other shelled species. If a wet land is based closer to the ocean, then there are even more options for river otters to enjoy. 

Minks

Similarly, minks like to be in any body of water. This includes wet lands, rivers, and near the coast.

They like to find shelter in the dens of other animals that have been abandoned, within large rocks, or forest areas. 

Like elks, minks are not typically found in denser forest areas. They tend to stick to the outskirts and enjoy a more varied habitat.

Most minks enjoy a diet of invertebrates, fish, and birds, which makes wet lands the perfect home for these species! 

Bobcats

Bobcats are another animal that can be found in wet lands across the country. This is because they are highly adaptable as a species.

Although some bobcats prefer open areas such as deserts and canyons, others can be found in wet lands and swamps. 

Most bobcats eat birds and smaller mammals, but they have been known to hunt larger species. They have a highly impressive hunting ability, which allows bobcats to thrive in a range of habitats.

Because of this, it is not uncommon for bobcats to be seen passing through or hunting in a wet land. 

Salamanders

More amphibian species that can be found in wet lands are salamanders. They like to hide in vegetation and can be found within a wet land’s moss, bark, and leaves on the ground.

Because they tend to live near or in bodies of water, most species of salamander can be found on wet lands. 

This is because of the insects and smaller prey that can be found in the water and close to the shore.

Salamanders are also popular pets, and it is important to let them hide behind certain things like bark and moss. 

Turtles

Because they have evolved for an aquatic life, most turtles can be found near slow moving bodies of water.

Wet lands are a particular favorite location for turtle species because there are plenty of hiding places. Wild turtles and other species can be found in permanent wet lands across the country.

However, they tend to be a little shy. This is especially true if a turtle has not been exposed to humans before.

Summary

Make sure that you carefully research more about the wet lands near you before approaching a particular species.

While the animals can seem friendly and somewhat docile, they are wild animals, and likely to attack if they feel threatened. 

Wet lands provide a range of nutrients, hiding spots, and slow moving water for a large variety of animals.

Depending on the climate that you live in, and the kind of vegetation that can be found on a particular wet lands, it could be worth looking out for some animals above.

Taking photographs of nature and simply observing from a safe distance can be incredibly exciting, and a great way to explore the wonders of nature.