Habitat fragmentation linked with urban sprawl and development has been shown to negatively impact biological diversity in animals, according to new research.
"Researchers assessed four species -- three lizards and a bird -- in the Santa Monica Mountains near Thousand Oaks. Co-author Robert Fisher at the U.S. Geological Survey in San Diego said a similar study recently was started in San Diego County to see what has happened to genetic diversity in a region where habitat "connectivity" and conservation planning goes back several years.
His work in the Santa Monica Mountains suggests "habitat islands" are forming where animals are unlikely to be related to the same species in neighboring areas. In addition, animals within smaller and more-isolated habitat patches are closely related to one another."
Roads and other human-made barriers tend to isolate animals and encourage in-breeding, which reduces biodiversity and potentially increases the risk of extinction.
FULL STORY: Study shows urban sprawl threatens genetic diversity
The Resiliency of Urban Wildlife
A wide-ranging research study highlights the various qualities that make animal species living in urban environments thrive—and how biodiversity improves the health of our cities.
The Best Locations for L.A.’s Mountain Lion Freeway Bridges
A coalition of researchers have identified one area near the 101 and other near I-15 that would help keep the big cats alive and healthy.
Mapping the Collision Course of Sprawl and Biodiversity
The expansion of the built environment proceeds with little regard for the loss of biodiversity, and the planning field isn't doing enough to help.
Analysis: Cybertruck Fatality Rate Far Exceeds That of Ford Pinto
The Tesla Cybertruck was recalled seven times last year.
National Parks Layoffs Will Cause Communities to Lose Billions
Thousands of essential park workers were laid off this week, just before the busy spring break season.
Retro-silient?: America’s First “Eco-burb,” The Woodlands Turns 50
A master-planned community north of Houston offers lessons on green infrastructure and resilient design, but falls short of its founder’s lofty affordability and walkability goals.
Test News Post 1
This is a summary
Analysis: Cybertruck Fatality Rate Far Exceeds That of Ford Pinto
The Tesla Cybertruck was recalled seven times last year.
Test News Headline 46
Test for the image on the front page.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
EMC Planning Group, Inc.
Planetizen
Planetizen
Mpact (formerly Rail~Volution)
Great Falls Development Authority, Inc.
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
NYU Wagner Graduate School of Public Service