Most natural areas are preserved from development for multiple reasons, such as protecting unique natural features, conserving plants and animals, and providing space for outdoor recreation. But we don’t know if these uses are always compatible, and researchers have found that recreation can have negative effects on species. Our research goals are to measure and model recreation in urban natural areas, and assess whether recreation affects where mammal and reptile species are found. We hope to develop an understanding of the potential trade-offs between recreation and wildlife conservation and help inform management strategies for sustaining urban wildlife. פחות ↑