February 2 is dedicated to wetlands, seasonally or permanently flooded forests usually found in and around Africa. National Wetlands Day celebrates the places that make up over 7% of the earth surface.

Wetlands can be considered quite the spectacle to witness; during the dry season they host land animals such as birds and reptiles, but after the rainy season they can be turned into something aquatic hosting many types of fish and amphibians.

You might be curious on what else is special about wetlands beyond seasonal flooding.

Since wetlands usually have different environments year round, they can provide homes to different types of animals. With rich soil and generous amounts of water, food is plentiful for any creature that decides to make its home in wetlands. However, it also plays a major part in decomposition, which is arguably beneficial to us as humans as well.

It is unfortunate, though, that wetlands are starting to become endangered. Due to human intervention, wetlands are slowly starting to shrink and, with wetlands holding around 40% of endangered species at some point, it is posing a threat to many creatures.

February 2 is a great time to learn about wetlands and raise awareness. Many plants and animals call wetlands their home and they are slowly losing their protection. So this National Wetlands Day, take some time out of your day to teach yourself and others the beauty and importance of natural wetlands.