1. Explore – Foundations of Wildlife and Urban Spaces
In this section, we lay the groundwork for understanding the intricate relationship between urban environments and natural ecosystems. While cities are often perceived as separate from nature, they are, in fact, complex ecosystems where human activities profoundly impact local biodiversity.
1.1 What is an Urban Ecosystem?
Urban ecosystems refer to areas where human settlements, infrastructure, and modified natural environments interact, supporting a unique array of plant and animal life (Grimm et al., 2008). Urban areas, once considered devoid of significant wildlife, are increasingly recognized as complex ecosystems where human activities profoundly influence natural processes.