The resilience of wildlife shines through as nature takes over abandoned human spaces
Human activity has taken a toll on wildlife and ecosystems around the world. However, there is hope in the form of nature’s resilience. Research shows that given the opportunity, even species on the brink of extinction can bounce back. In this article, we explore remarkable examples of nature reclaiming abandoned human spaces, from ancient temples to nuclear disaster zones. These stories demonstrate the power of giving wildlife the chance to thrive when humans move out.
Ta Prohm, Cambodia
Ta Prohm, an ancient temple in Cambodia, provides a stunning example of nature’s ability to reclaim abandoned human spaces. Built in the 12th century, this Buddhist monastery and university thrived for centuries before being abandoned. Today, the temple is enveloped by gigantic fig, banyan, and kapok trees, their roots intertwining with the temple walls. Wildlife Alliance and the Cambodian government have reintroduced various animal species, including gibbons, langurs, otters, hornbills, and green peafowls, to restore the ecosystem.
Houtouwan, Shengshan Island, China
Houtouwan, a fishing village on Shengshan Island, now stands as a post-apocalyptic ghost town. Once home to over 3,000 residents, the village was abandoned due to its remote location. Over the years, nature has reclaimed the land, with lush green climbing plants blanketing the abandoned homes. Despite its eerie appearance, Houtouwan has become a popular tourist destination, attracting over 90,000 visitors in 2021.
Mangapurua Valley, New Zealand
The Mangapurua Valley in New Zealand’s North Island was once a settlement for soldiers returning from World War I. However, due to the valley’s remoteness and poor farming soils, it was eventually abandoned. Today, the valley is a testament to nature’s resilience, with the forest regrowing and native animals returning. The concrete “Bridge to Nowhere” stands as a reminder of the settlement, while the valley is now part of the Whanganui National Park, supporting a diverse range of bird species and New Zealand’s largest population of North Island brown kiwi.
Steam Ship Yongala, Australia
The SS Yongala, Australia’s largest and most intact shipwreck, sank in 1911, creating an underwater ecosystem in the Great Barrier Reef. Today, the wreck is carpeted with brightly colored coral, providing a habitat for a diverse range of marine species. Loggerhead turtles, marble rays, bull sharks, and moray eels are just a few of the creatures that call the SS Yongala home.
Ilha da Queimada Grande, Brazil
Ilha da Queimada Grande, also known as Snake Island, is a remote island off the coast of Brazil. It is home to the highly venomous golden lancehead snakes, earning it the nickname Snake Island. The island’s isolation, caused by rising sea levels thousands of years ago, has allowed the golden lancehead to adapt and thrive. Today, the island is a protected area and a biological treasure, off-limits to visitors without permission.
Demilitarized Zone, Korea
The demilitarized zone (DMZ) dividing North and South Korea has become a thriving wildlife haven. The lack of human interference has allowed over 6,000 plant and animal species to flourish in this once conflict-ridden area. Endangered species such as the Mongolian racerunner lizard, otters, musk deer, and the Manchurian trout find sanctuary in the DMZ. Efforts to establish peace in the region have led to the opening of peace hiking trails, offering a glimpse into the remarkable biodiversity of the area.
Al Madam Village, UAE
Al Madam, a village in the United Arab Emirates, now stands as a mini ghost town in the desert. Built in the 1970s as public housing for Bedouin people, the village was abandoned within two decades as people sought better opportunities in cities. Today, the once-loved buildings are slowly disappearing under the unforgiving wilderness, creating a unique sight in the desert landscape.
Fukushima, Japan
The Fukushima Exclusion Zone, established after the 2011 nuclear disaster, was thought to be a wasteland devoid of life. However, research has shown that the area is teeming with wildlife. Wild boars, Japanese macaques, raccoon dogs, serow, and red foxes have thrived in the absence of human activity. Despite the tragedy, nature has found a way to adapt and reclaim the land.
St Kilda, Scotland
The St. Kilda archipelago off Scotland’s coast was once home to a fluctuating population. However, in 1930, the remaining residents requested to be resettled on the mainland. Since then, St. Kilda has become a wildlife hotspot, with almost 1 million seabirds, including the UK’s largest colony of Atlantic puffins. The islands are now wildlife sanctuaries, offering a glimpse into the natural beauty of this remote part of the British Isles.
Stack Rock Fort, Wales
Stack Rock Fort, an abandoned island fort off the coast of Wales, has been slowly reclaimed by flora and fauna. Hazels plants grow on the fort, while seabirds, including various types of gulls, have made it their home. The fort stands as a living ruin, showcasing the power of nature to reclaim human structures.
Conclusion:
These examples of nature reclaiming abandoned human spaces serve as a powerful reminder of the resilience of wildlife. From ancient temples to nuclear disaster zones, when humans move out, nature moves in. These stories highlight the importance of giving wildlife the opportunity to thrive and the need for conservation efforts to protect these reclaimed ecosystems. As we navigate the challenges of environmental preservation, we can find hope in the ability of nature to bounce back when given the chance.
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