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Global study, B.C. researcher analyze how mammals responded during pandemic

Animals more active in developed areas, less so around humans in natural areas
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A study that combined camera trap data from around the world looked at how animal behaviour changed during the pandemic. Bears are seen in this image captured by a camera trap. (Courtesy of Jason Fisher)

As widespread social shutdowns took hold in the early days of the pandemic, common were stories of animals resurging in a way where even safari dwellers were wandering through empty city streets.

While there were cases of increased animal activity, some others were exaggerated and studies didn’t have much data backing the idea of animals reclaiming urban territory globally.

However, the pandemic offered a rare opportunity to look into how animals may respond to quieter urban settings, along with higher numbers of people visiting natural areas.

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Jake Romphf

About the Author: Jake Romphf

In early 2021, I made the move from the Great Lakes to Greater Victoria with the aim of experiencing more of the country I report on.
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