Unleashing Your Inner Urban Naturalist: Exploring the Concrete Jungle

The Rise of the Citizen Scientist

The world of science is no longer confined to labs and ivory towers. Citizen scientists, armed with curiosity and a passion for discovery, are making significant contributions, observing the natural world around them and sharing their findings. From meticulously documented dog behaviors to thriving rooftop gardens transformed into urban wildlife havens, the power of citizen science is undeniable.

A Conversation with Dr. Menno Schilthuizen

Dr. Menno Schilthuizen's new book, "The Urban Naturalist," celebrates this movement. In a recent conversation, he shared the inspiration behind his work.

The Motivation Behind "The Urban Naturalist"

Schilthuizen explained that his book arose from a confluence of factors. His lifelong passion for exploration, combined with a growing recognition of the public's interest in scientific pursuits, fueled his desire to empower aspiring naturalists. He believes that modern tools and resources have broken down the barriers that once prevented amateur scientists from making meaningful contributions.

"The scientific literature is available online for everybody; databases with genetic, environmental, biodiversity, and geographic information are free to access and use...," Schilthuizen points out.

The City as a Scientific Playground

The urban environment, according to Schilthuizen, is a particularly exciting landscape for scientific discovery. It is a novel ecosystem, shaped by human activity in a way never before seen in the history of our planet. Urban naturalists are perfectly positioned to observe this unique evolutionary drama unfold.

Equipping the Urban Explorer

"The Urban Naturalist" aims to provide readers with the tools and mindset of an explorer. Schilthuizen highlights the scientific potential of everyday technology, such as smartphones, and discusses the creation of natural history collections, including ethical considerations.

The Unique Ecology of the Urban Environment

Schilthuizen’s book explores the similarities and differences between urban and "wild" ecosystems. While urban environments present unique challenges – roadkill, light pollution, and impervious surfaces – they also mirror aspects of natural ecosystems. Isolated green spaces can function like oceanic islands, and even gutters can mimic rainforests on a smaller scale.

Reconnecting City Dwellers with Nature

Schilthuizen hopes to reach anyone living in an urban environment who harbors a sense of curiosity and wonder. He encourages them to rediscover the nature around them, dispelling the notion that nature is only accessible through television or distant travel.

The Joy of Collecting and Evolutionary Traps

The book delves into the importance of collecting natural objects, fostering a deeper understanding of the natural world. Schilthuizen also discusses "evolutionary traps," such as the deadly attraction of insects and birds to polarized light reflected from man-made surfaces, highlighting the unexpected challenges faced by urban wildlife.

Embracing a Hands-Off Approach to Urban Conservation

Schilthuizen advocates for a less interventionist approach to urban nature conservation. He believes in allowing ecosystems to unfold naturally, emphasizing observation and appreciation over active manipulation.

"...nature conservation, especially in cities, is just a matter of actively doing nothing and simply watching ecosystems unfold themselves," Schilthuizen concludes.