Estuaries support diverse wildlife populations in several ways. They provide a unique habitat where freshwater from rivers mixes with saltwater from the ocean, creating a nutrient-rich environment that supports a variety of plant and animal species. The sheltered waters of estuaries also serve as a nursery for many marine species, offering protection for young fish, crustaceans, and other organisms. Additionally, estuaries provide important feeding grounds for birds, mammals, and other wildlife, making them essential for maintaining biodiversity in coastal ecosystems.