 There are MANY organisms that use the Chesapeake Bay as their habitat. There are mammals, reptiles, crabs & shellfish, birds, and several invasive species. Mammals There are many mammals that live on or near the Chesapeake Bay. A mammal is a warm-blooded organism that gives birth to its young. Mammals on the Cheapeake Bay include:
Mammals live both on land and in water, and some divide their time between the two. Some live along the shorelines of the Bay, and some that are fit for land and water have special adaptations allowing them to survive. Aquatic mammals, such as the Atlantic bottlenose dolphin, have special adaptations as well. Birds Though they both inhabit the Bay, birds are obviously very different from mammals. Just as there are a wide variety of mammals though, there are a large variety of birds.
Again, these are not the only birds that inhabit the Bay. But again, birds are very different from mammals. Birds to not often stick to their habitats, as they roam around alot. However, they need a protective place to use as a nursery. Ospreys, eagles, and some other bay birds are raptors, or birds of prey. Unfortunately for all birds on the bay, habitat loss is a severe problem. Erosion can disrupt nesting areas and chemicals in the water can harm their food supply. Crabs & Shellfish Crabs and Shellfish are another kind of organism on the Bay. Some of these species:
Other Organisms There are many other types of organisms in the Bay. There are fish, bay grasses, invasive species, reptiles, and so many more. Of course, that's what makes the bay so great. It's wide variety in species!
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