Using a wetland map layer (see resources below), identify the different types of wetland habitats the tagged herons use. Learn how the types differ in water depth, plant composition and structure, aquatic fauna, and other variables. Hypothesize what they use each wetland type for. Determine the relative importance of each type to a heron over the course of a year and during the following periods: nesting, spring and fall migration, and wintering. What percentage of the wetlands are classified as Inland Waterfowl and Wading Bird Habitats (IWWH) under Maine's Natural Resources Protection Act? Suggested resources:
- Google Earth
- Map layers for wetlands and IWWH can be found at the Maine Office of GIS Data Catalog: maine.gov/megis/catalog or on Maine DEP's GIS Maps and Other Data Files website: https://www1.maine.gov/dep/gis/datamaps/index.html#nrpa_bird
- Tip: look for the following symbol, which indicates a file that can be brought into Google Earth:
