Throughout the world, migratory birds rely on chains of coastal wetland sites that they use to refuel and rest at as they make frequent stops along their lengthy, twice-yearly migrations to and from their breeding grounds. But coastal wetlands are under severe pressure from land conversion and drainage for agricultural development, worldwide. A shocking 70% of all wetlands have been lost since 1900! BirdLife International is working with local people, national governments, and regional development partners to protect these remaining vital refuges and the many threatened birds that are completely reliant on them. The humanitarian benefits of protecting these sites are also of huge significance. Coastal wetlands provide multiple essential ecosystem services such as food, medicine, fuel, and income. Climate Change is now a growing problem too with increasing ocean levels already threatening coastal cities and, low- lying rural areas. Here, coastal wetlands play a vital role in both regulating rising floodwaters and sequestering carbon. Whether you want to save migratory birds and the wonderful coastal habitats you love or simply, humanity, please join us this Global Bird Weekend and make a donation and/or help raise vital funding that we will use to protect the vital coastal wetlands that serve us and the natural world so very well.