# Urban wildlife conservation and habitat naturalization

> Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/urban-wildlife-conservation-and-habitat-naturalization
> Updated: 2026-10-23T15:20:07.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2.

Efforts to support urban wildlife are increasingly focusing on habitat naturalization and specialized care for various species. In Gijón, local authorities are transforming Isabel la Católica Park to ‘naturalize’ its bird population, moving away from outdated practices like clipping wings to establish a primary care point for sick birds in coordination with the Sobrescobio Wildlife Recovery Center. Similarly, in the Aburrá Valley, the Metropolitan Area of the Aburrá Valley and CES University have treated hundreds of migratory birds arriving weakened by urban environments.

In Santander, research by SEO/BirdLife indicates that reducing mowing frequency in urban parks significantly boosts biodiversity. Studies across five major city parks found that non-mowed zones supported 22 butterfly species, including specialists like the Old World Swallowtail, whereas frequently mowed areas supported only 10 species. The findings suggest that naturalized zones provide the necessary nectar and diverse plant life required to sustain richer habitats.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-23: Santander urban parks show increased butterfly diversity in naturalized areas

A SEO/BirdLife study in Santander found that naturalized urban parks support 22 butterfly species, more than double the 10 species found in frequently mowed areas.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/santander-urban-parks-show-increased-butterfly-diversity-in-naturalized-areas

### 2026-10-18: Urban wildlife initiatives focus on migratory bird conservation and care

Urban conservation efforts are evolving as Gijón reforms its park bird management and the Aburrá Valley treats hundreds of migratory birds arriving in the region.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/urban-wildlife-initiatives-focus-on-migratory-bird-conservation-and-care

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Cite as: Urban wildlife conservation and habitat naturalization. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/urban-wildlife-conservation-and-habitat-naturalization
