Waterbirds

Waterbirds use lakes, rivers, marshes, lagoons and shores for food, rest and breeding. Ducks, geese, swans, pelicans, cormorants and herons have different adaptations to these habitats.

Adaptations to life near water

• Ducks, geese and swans swim and also use nearby land.
• Pelicans and cormorants search for food in water using different methods.
• Herons and storks can find small animals in shallow water or on wet ground.
• Flamingos filter their food, while cranes also use wetlands for breeding and rest.

Food and seasonal changes

Food can include plants, seeds, invertebrates, fish and other animals. Bill shape, legs and feeding methods differ between species.

Some birds remain in one region, while others migrate. Water levels, vegetation and food availability influence resting and nesting places.

Wetlands also support many other animals. Numerous birds of Romania use the lakes and reedbeds of the Danube Delta.

Sources: RSPB — wetland birds · RSPB — grey heron · Romanian Ornithological Society — bird species