How Urban Areas Can Become More Wildlife-Friendly
Cities grow over time, but this can threaten many animal species as their natural habitats shrink and splinter into smaller plots of land. As previously wild areas are developed into cities and towns, humans and wildlife can also come into conflict. Let’s look at the impact of urban development and some approaches to accommodate the needs of all species, human and otherwise.
The impact of urban growth on wildlife
Animals thrive in natural environments where they can find the right food, shelter, sufficient water, and open space to roam. Whether a species is migratory or resides in a particular location year-round, their habitat is one that meets their needs and supports the longevity of their kind. When these environments change—when forests are cleared, new roads cut into wild areas, and open space is replaced by buildings and pavement—wildlife can lose the resources they need to survive. Furthermore, animals can be injured or killed if they collide with vehicles or if people use inhumane methods to get rid of them.
Some animals adapt to living in proximity to humans, but this adaptation is often counterproductive. It can place animals, and sometimes people, in danger. For instance, bears and raccoons forced to forage in neighborhood garbage cans for food are not getting proper nutrition, and they might be harmed by waste that is toxic or otherwise bad for them. Bears especially can be dangerous when they grow too accustomed to humans—they lose their natural fear of humans and instinct to avoid them.
Innovative green spaces and corridors
Besides wildland parks, preserves, and other protected natural areas, there are several innovative green spaces that can help humans and wildlife live in harmony. For example, some cities are developing wildlife corridors or pathways that animals can use to safely move from one part of a fragmented habitat to another. These corridors might be protected strips of land running parallel to highways, or bridges designed for animals to safely cross major roadways. Wildlife corridors can also allow animals to migrate over time, which may be necessary if climate change makes it difficult to survive in their traditional habitats.
Urban parks and gardens can also help wildlife thrive, even right in the middle of a busy city. With a variety of native plants, trees, and natural features like log piles and ponds, these spaces can promote biodiversity by providing habitats for a surprising number of species. They attract pollinators like butterflies and bees, help insects and small animals find shelter, and offer food and nesting opportunities for birds. At the same time, these parks and gardens allow people living nearby to connect with nature, enhancing their wellbeing.
Individual households can also do their part to make cities safer for wildlife. Anyone with a yard can create wildlife-friendly habitats by planting native plants, grasses, shrubs, and trees, especially those that attract pollinators. Installing a bird path, pond, or fountain provides water for thirsty species, while a simple brush pile can create a safe shelter or hiding spot for many creatures. Reducing lawn cover also frees up more space for wildlife habitat. Even apartment-dwellers can create a wildlife-friendly deck, patio, or balcony with clusters of potted plants that attract birds, bees, and butterflies.
Urban planning considerations
Conserving wildlife while building the infrastructure needed to sustain a growing city is no easy task. Nevertheless, it’s still possible to preserve public lands where species can thrive and build communities that meet the needs of residents.
Designating buffer zones that protect sensitive natural environments, incorporating local waterways in urban designs, and creating parks for people to experience nature are ways to build a city that’s wildlife-friendly. Regulations that promote biodiversity, require skies to remain dark, and designate quiet places in the urban landscape are also worthy initiatives that benefit both wildlife and humans.
Reducing conflicts between humans and wildlife
It’s inevitable that people and wildlife will come into contact with one another, especially when development expands into natural areas and wildlands. For the best outcome in these situations, it’s important that people know how to be good neighbors to local wildlife. This means teaching children and adults alike about the animal species that live close by, how to give them space when an encounter happens, and respecting their rights to exist undisturbed. This can be taught in school classrooms, local community centers, and other venues.
Reducing conflict can look like signs posted along trails cautioning people not to stray into wildlife territory, campaigns to secure garbage from animals, and reminding residents not to feed wild species. Some cities are even paying people to remove their lawns—which can both save water and make room for a wildlife-friendly garden. To reduce the likelihood of harmful interactions between people and other species, it’s critical to help wildlife live as independently as possible. The bottom line is that with careful city planning and the involvement and buy-in of community members, urban areas can be friendlier to wildlife.