Florida’s underground sewer systems, known primarily for channeling waste, are unexpectedly hosting a wide array of wildlife, according to a new study. Researchers discovered that animals such as alligators, raccoons, and numerous other species are navigating the urban environment through stormwater sewer systems (SSS), particularly in Alachua County.
The surprising discovery came after scientists placed camera traps within the pipes, revealing 35 vertebrate species, including amphibians, reptiles, and birds. The American alligator, among the observed animals, appeared most frequently, using the system to avoid busy roads and travel between ponds safely.
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Study co-author Alan Ivory from the University of Florida shared his amazement at the abundance of wildlife, particularly reptiles like the Yellow-bellied Slider turtle, using the underground network. The researchers suggest that the sewer systems offer a safer alternative to road crossings, reducing the risk of road accidents for these animals.
The study, published in the Urban Naturalist journal, highlights how urban wildlife is adapting to human-altered landscapes. The findings open new possibilities for urban planners to incorporate wildlife-friendly designs into city infrastructures, ensuring safe passageways for animals while mitigating their risks.
While the research offers groundbreaking insights, the study’s authors acknowledge limitations, particularly in detecting cold-blooded species like amphibians and reptiles. The use of heat-based camera traps may have led to underreporting, prompting calls for further studies and the development of devices to aid species at risk of being trapped in sewers.
