Wildlife in the urban—rural gradient: a socio-ecological look at the coexistence between nature and city
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.59741/agraria.v23iE1.748Keywords:
biodiversity, ecological connectivity, conservation, ecosystemic services, human-wildlife conflict, urbanizationAbstract
Rapid urbanization has substantially altered the relationship between human societies and wildlife, generating profound transformations in landscape configuration and the ecological processes that sustain it. In this scenario, the traditional distinction between urban and natural spaces is now limited. This article analyzes the role of wildlife along the urban–rural gradient from a socio-ecological perspective, examining the interactions between wildlife, society, and territory, as well as their implications for conservation, urban planning, and human-wildlife coexistence. Along this gradient, progressive changes are observed in habitat structure, resource availability, and ecological connectivity. Analyzing wildlife along the urban–rural gradient from a socio-ecological perspective allows us to understand how the interactions between society, territory, and biodiversity manifest themselves in specific contexts. This approach is particularly relevant in regions where large cities coexist closely with ecosystems of high ecological value. Integrating this vision into urban planning and public policies is fundamental to strengthening conservation, reducing human-wildlife conflicts, and promoting more resilient and environmentally sustainable urban development models.
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