Urban Wildlife

One of the most joyful things about living in an area with an abundance of public parks is the variety of urban wildlife. Although getting too close may be dangerous at times, the emotional boost we get is well worth it. Sometimes just sitting in a park bench and watching the squirrels is a pleasure. At times they will venture so close to us, we are sure they are going to jump on our lap. They watch us intently with those bright black eyes, like they are looking into our soul.

Or, that rock over by the pond suddenly moves, and turns out to be a well-camouflaged tortoise in it's wildlife habitat. Especially enjoyable are the different birds that gather around ponds. In winter the migrants arrive, and parks are overflowing with herons, egrets, storks, and several species of ducks. Even an eagle might drop in. Hawks are busy looking for nesting sites during the mating season, and often build on signs overlooking parking lots, sending debris onto parked cars. They are beauty aloft. This a great time to take some wildlife photos.

Sometimes too much wildlife in the park spills onto the surrounding urban areas and become a nuisance. At times deer become a traffic hazard. Some animals, such as foxes, might carry rabies. Coyotes are known to eat domestic pets. In Florida, alligators will attack pets and people, and must be removed. Residents there must remain vigilant. Some wildlife that seemed close to extinct in years past have made a surprising comeback in spite of urban life, such as the black bear and cougar among others. Finding scraps of pet food, or pets in back yards has made them at home.Continuing this delicate balance between conservation and wildlife protection will be a never ending story.

Go to the National Wildlife Federation site for ideas on how to co-exist with urban wildlife.