COLUMBUS – Wildlife species that thrive in urban habitats are the focus of this year’s Ohio Wildlife Diversity Conference set for March 13 at the Aladdin Shriner’s Complex in Columbus.
The annual event is open to the public and is sponsored by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife.
“Some people believe wildlife is only found out in the ‘country.’ The truth is many species not only survive in urban environments, they flourish,” said Mike Budzik, chief of ODNR’s Division of Wildlife.
Budzik added that not all wildlife species are compatible with their human neighbors, and that some of the conference presentations would address solutions to urban wildlife problems.
Keynote speaker. Kevin McGowan of Cornell University’s Laboratory of Ornithology will give the keynote address. McGowan will discuss the habits of city crows based on his research in Ithaca, N.Y.
A portion of the program will provide insight on urban planning issues by state representative Jim McGregor, the former mayor of Gahanna, who helped create a “wildlife friendly” community just outside Columbus.
Other presentations will address seagulls, falcons, dragonflies and other species common to cities.
Wetlands mitigation at Slate Run Metropark near Columbus will be featured, as well as a partnership between Audubon Ohio and the ODNR Division of Wildlife.
Call to register. For additional program information and registration call 1-800-WILDLIFE and request a conference brochure. Early registration discounts apply until Feb. 26.
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