Since 2007, more than half of the world’s population lives in cities. By 2050, it could be as many as two-thirds. Urbanization means an expansion of the built-up area and a change in the way of life. The causes and effects of this development are increasingly come to the fore of research. However, urbanization not only affects people, but also animals. More and more wildlife is moving into cities and adapting to the new surroundings. One meets foxes in London, nightingales in Berlin, badgers in Zurich, or leopards in Mumbai. Nature and culture, the natural space of the wilderness and the artificial space of the city are not neatly separated. This raises questions! How can we study wildlife in cities? How do animals change in the city? How can we design coexistence with these animals? What opportunities and risks does this coexistence open up for both, humans and animals?

Panelists:

• MSc Evelyn Hüppi, PhD candidate, Paleontological Institute and Museum, University of Zurich
• Dr. Madeleine Geiger, Postdoctoral researcher, Paleontological Institute and Museum, University of Zurich and research associate, SWILD – Urban Ecology, Wildlife Research, Communication
• Prof. Dr. Markus Wild, Professor, Department of Philosophy, University of Basel