Humans traveled less during COVID restrictions. Animals traveled more

Animals traveled more and ventured closer to roadways during the COVID-19 lockdowns, according to a new study in the journal Science.

The study: Researchers analyzed the movements of over 2,000 animals from 43 mammalian species worldwide during the initial COVID lockdowns.
* On average, the animals traveled 73% farther during the lockdowns than during the same period a year earlier.
* The animals also ventured 36% closer to roadways.

Implications: The findings offer insight into the ways human behavior can directly impact wild animal populations and their ability to adapt to changing environments.
* The study’s results can be used to develop better wildlife management strategies and improve the quality of habitat available to species in protected areas.

Global experiment: The study presented a unique opportunity to investigate how animals would respond to sudden changes in human mobility and traffic volume, providing essential information for future planning and wildlife conservation efforts.

View original article on NPR

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