This case study focuses on wetlands in Ontario, Canada, to investigate factors impacting biodiversity. The narrative begins with an introduction to native plant species at varying levels of conservation concern. Students examine the life history traits of these plants to hypothesize why some species might be at greater risk than others. The case then introduces two major threats to wetlands ecosystems: invasive species and habitat fragmentation. Through the exploration of these threats, students apply core ecological skills of calculating, visualizing, and interpreting levels of biodiversity. More broadly, students practice developing clear, testable hypotheses and applying ecological theory to real-life scenarios, all important skills in the field of ecology (and STEM in general) used in field sampling, data collection, data interpretation, dissemination of findings, and development of conservation policies. The case concludes by highlighting the practical application of the theory of island biogeography, further supporting students’ understanding of this commonly cited ecological theory. The case is ideally suited for use in introductory ecology courses at the undergraduate level.