Can Wild Animals and Humans Coexist in Cities?

Summary

In this episode of 'Above the Noise,' Myles Bess explores the rising presence of wild animals in urban areas, triggered by the pandemic and ongoing urbanization. As cities expand and wildlife habitats shrink, animals like turkeys, coyotes, and wild boars are increasingly roaming through city streets. While this poses challenges, solutions like urban rewilding are helping cities, such as Washington D.C. and Oakland, create spaces that are more welcoming to wildlife. The episode highlights the need for humans and animals to coexist in the urban world, offering hope for a sustainable balance between urbanization and nature.

Takeaways

• 😀 Wild turkeys and other animals have increasingly been spotted in cities, with Oakland being an example of this phenomenon.
• 🦠 The pandemic led to a global slowdown of human activity, called the 'anthropause,' which allowed wild animals to roam urban areas.
• 🌍 Scientists suggest that cities and suburbs will continue to expand, which will reduce natural, undisturbed habitats for wildlife.
• 🌳 80% of the U.S. population now lives in urban areas, and by 2050, two-thirds of the global population will reside in cities.
• 📉 Vertebrate animal populations (animals with a backbone) have declined by nearly 60% between 1970 and 2012 due to urbanization, climate change, and other factors.
• 🐾 Urban wildlife can cause traffic disruptions and pose risks, but they are often more of a nuisance than a direct danger to humans.
• 🐺 Coyotes, for example, have adapted to city life by eating whatever is available, including trash, rather than posing serious threats to people.
• 💉 Urban wildlife can potentially bring diseases or parasites into cities, which could lead to health concerns, as seen with the possible origins of COVID-19 in bats.
• 🐾 Coyotes are a good example of an animal species that adapts to urban life; when their numbers decrease, they breed more to compensate.
• 🌳 Urban rewilding is a growing trend that focuses on transforming urban areas into spaces where wildlife can thrive, benefiting both animals and people.
• 🌿 Washington, D.C., and Oakland are examples of cities actively practicing urban rewilding by planting trees, improving water quality, and creating wildlife-friendly spaces.

Q & A

What is the 'anthropause' mentioned in the video?

The 'anthropause' refers to the global slowdown of human activity during the pandemic, which allowed animals to venture into cities and suburbs as human presence in urban areas decreased.

How does urbanization impact wildlife?

Urbanization leads to habitat loss, pollution, and climate change, all of which can disrupt animal populations. It can also cause animals to adapt to city living, which may introduce new challenges, such as the spread of diseases or increased human-animal conflict.

What is 'compensatory breeding' in coyotes?

Compensatory breeding is when coyotes increase their reproduction rate if their numbers begin to decrease, often in response to attempts to control their population. This makes it harder to manage their presence in urban areas.

Why is urban rewilding important?

Urban rewilding involves transforming urban areas into environments where wildlife can thrive. It aims to provide more space and resources for animals within cities, making it a more sustainable solution for both humans and wildlife as urbanization continues.

How does Washington, D.C. support urban wildlife?

Washington, D.C. supports urban wildlife through extensive green spaces, planting about 11,000 trees per year, and passing strict pollution laws that improve water quality. This has led to a resurgence of various species like birds, fish, and reptiles, making D.C. a model for urban rewilding.

What role do animals like coyotes play in urban ecosystems?

Coyotes are generalists, meaning they adapt to their environment by eating a variety of available food, including trash. Their presence can help manage other populations, such as feral cats, but can also lead to nuisance behavior if not carefully managed.

What are the potential risks of urban animals like coyotes and wild boars?

The main risks include the spread of diseases and the possibility of human or pet attacks, though such incidents are rare. Another concern is that urban wildlife may carry parasites or viruses that could contribute to future pandemics.

What is the current state of wildlife in Oakland?

Oakland, once known for its oak trees, has experienced significant urbanization. Today, there are few oak trees left, and wildlife habitats have been disrupted. However, efforts like cleaning up Lake Merritt have helped restore some local biodiversity.

Why do some people view urban wildlife as a nuisance?

Urban wildlife, like coyotes or wild turkeys, can be seen as a nuisance because they may block traffic, scavenge through trash, or occasionally cause damage to property. People also fear potential attacks or disease transmission from these animals.

Can cities and wildlife co-exist in the long term?

Yes, but it requires thoughtful planning. As urban areas continue to expand, cities must consider integrating nature and wildlife through initiatives like urban rewilding to create spaces where both humans and animals can live in harmony.