Life in its habitat
It eats wetland plants and swims readily to escape danger. It’s tied to places supplying food and shelter. That connection explains much of its range.
What records reveal
Records follow wetlands and river lowlands, not population size. Survey effort varies, and accessible places receive more attention. A gap can’t prove absence.
Looking ahead
Wetland loss, roads, rising seas, and predators threaten local groups. Conservation works best when it protects connected habitat and reduces avoidable deaths. Surveys can reveal change without confusing records with animal numbers.
