What are mudflats and why are they important?

The tidal island of Le Mont-Saint-Michel in Normandy, France, in the Bay of Mont-Saint-Michel, constitutes the largest expanse of mudflats in France.

The Bay of Mont-Saint-Michel, between Cancale and Granville, covers about 500 square kilometres. The vast mudflats accommodate a diverse range of birds and animals. 

Mudflats are also called tidal flats. It is a coastal wetland and is influenced by the sea tides coming in and going out. They are flat plains of mud. 

Migratory birds love mudflats, and so do crabs, molluscs, and fish. There are signs of life in the mud – foot prints, bubbles of air, small holes, etc. Mudflats are not only important for animals, but they are also important in preventing coastal erosion. 

Location of photographs: Bay of Mont-Saint-Michel, Normandy, France

Photographer: Martina Nicolls

Martina Nicolls: SIMILAR BUT DIFFERENT IN THE ANIMAL KINGDOM