Cities Gone Wild: How Urbanization Impacts Wildlife and Human-Animal Relationships

A captivating photographic series explores the complex and evolving relationship between humans and wildlife in urban environments.

In a world where urbanization is rapidly encroaching on natural habitats, wildlife is being forced to adapt to survive. Photographer Corey Arnold embarked on a three-month journey to document the lives of black bears, coyotes, and raccoons in various cities across the United States. His project, “Cities Gone Wild,” sheds light on the challenges these animals face and the intricate relationship they have with humans. Through captivating images, Arnold captures the resilience of these creatures and the potential dangers that arise as humans and wildlife coexist in urban landscapes.

Bears, Coyotes, and Raccoons: Adapting to Urban Life

Arnold’s project focuses on three key species that have successfully adapted to urban environments: black bears, coyotes, and raccoons. These animals have learned to navigate cities and suburbs, finding shelter, food, and even play areas within human-built landscapes. The series reveals their resourcefulness and ability to thrive in the face of urbanization.

A New Diet for Urban Bears

One striking aspect of Arnold’s work is the impact of human garbage on urban black bears. In cities like Lake Tahoe and Asheville, North Carolina, these bears have altered their behavior and shape due to their diet of sugary human food. Studies have shown that urban bears are often larger and less active than their wilderness counterparts. Arnold’s photographs capture the consequences of this diet shift, highlighting the need for responsible waste management to protect both wildlife and humans.

Navigating the Urban Jungle: Coyotes’ Stealthy Survival

Arnold’s exploration of coyotes in Chicago reveals their remarkable ability to adapt to urban sprawl. These intelligent creatures have developed strategies to avoid their primary threat, vehicle traffic, by utilizing an extensive network of railroad tracks. They maintain specific territories, find mates, and locate hiding places that humans cannot access. Arnold’s photographs showcase the coyotes’ resilience and their ability to thrive within the shadows of the city.

The Complex Relationship Between Humans and Wildlife

While these animals have found ways to coexist with humans, conflicts and challenges arise. Raccoons rummage through trash cans, bears invade residential areas, and coyotes occasionally pose a threat to pets and humans. Arnold’s photographs capture these moments of tension, emphasizing the need for better understanding and management of human-wildlife interactions.

A Photographer’s Reflection on Human-Animal Relationships

Arnold’s personal connection to animals and his curiosity about the complexities of human-animal relationships shape his photographic work. He explores the contradictions inherent in how humans interact with different animal species, from admiring and loving them to consuming them for food. Arnold believes in striking a balance and listening to diverse perspectives on how we should treat animals, whether through hunting or environmental protection.

Conclusion:

“Cities Gone Wild” offers a thought-provoking glimpse into the lives of urban wildlife and the challenges they face in an increasingly urbanized world. Corey Arnold’s photographs capture the resilience and adaptability of black bears, coyotes, and raccoons, showcasing their ability to thrive in human-built landscapes. The series also prompts us to consider our own role in shaping these interactions and the importance of finding ways to coexist with the wildlife that shares our cities. By understanding and appreciating these creatures, we can work towards creating a harmonious balance between humans and wildlife in urban environments.


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