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Ep. 85 - Sharing Space with Nature: A Conversation with Urban Wildlife Biologist Jessica Merkling
Description
This week on Busted Knees and Pretty Trees, we sit down with urban wildlife biologist Jessica Merkling to pull back the curtain on a job most people never think about until there's an animal causing trouble. We talk nuisance wildlife, human-wildlife conflicts, and the challenges cities face as they work to balance development, public safety, and healthy wildlife populations.
What happens when a coyote moves into a neighborhood? Why do some animals thrive in urban environments while others struggle? And what does a typical day actually look like for an urban wildlife biologist?
From responding to wildlife complaints to educating the public and helping communities find solutions that work for both people and animals, Jessica shares stories from the field and offers a fascinating look at the often-overlooked work of coexistence.
If you've ever wondered what happens behind the scenes when wildlife and people cross paths, this is an episode you won't want to miss.
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