That coyote down your street? It’s trapped in the city. This book explains how
More people live in urban areas than ever before, but we are not the only ones moving into cities. A growing population of wild animals is adapting to life in our neighborhoods. In his new book Our Wild Familiars, epidemiologist Dan Werb explores how these creatures occupy space alongside us. From coyotes navigating our freeway systems to pigeons thriving without traditional predators, our urban landscape acts as a complex habitat for diverse species.
Werb notes that this shift is not accidental. Climate change and extreme weather events force wildlife to seek out water and food waste in human-modified spaces. While this leads to conflict—such as encounters with hungry bears or coyotes trapped within city limits—it also presents an opportunity to rethink our relationship with the natural world. Experts suggest that creating better infrastructure, like the Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing, helps manage these interactions safely.
Beyond the logistical challenges, there is a clear benefit to sharing our space with animals. Birdsong and proximity to wildlife offer measurable stress relief for city residents. As our environment changes, the presence of these animals serves as a reminder that we are part of a shared ecosystem. Understanding this connection is essential for the future sustainability of our metropolitan regions.