Hamilton is at the core of the 'Golden Horseshoe', the area around the western end of Lake Ontario that is known for being highly populated and for its wealth.

In fact, this strip of urban and industrial area on the lakeshore is one of the most populated urban areas in Canada. Currently 4,366,500 people live in the greater Toronto area and 618,800 in Hamilton (2001 Census, Stats Canada). Other smaller urban areas nearby are being amalgamated, and the urban landscape is growing at a rapid pace.

As urban areas expand across the landscape forested areas and wetlands, or lands used for agriculture, become part of this 'urban sprawl'. Urban sprawl includes the expansion of major roadways, not just housing and commercial sites.

View of City of Hamilton, looking towards Cootes Paradise, Hamilton Harbour and Burlington

Because most of us grew up in cities, the urban landscape is one that is familiar to us. Urban landscapes are not home to as much wildlife as natural areas, although some animals are able to thrive in urban areas. Reduced biodiversity is a characteristic of environments created by humanity.

Urban areas also block movement by wildlife between natural areas, leading to reduced feeding and mating opportunities because populations become isolated. This is why it is so important to maintain any existing natural pathways or corridors through urban environments. These 'habitat corridors' allow animals and plants, to access more resources, to have a better chance at survival, and to maintain genetic diversity in their populations because of improved breeding opportunities. You can help assist wildlife by providing islands of native vegetation on your own property and by becoming involved in the efforts underway to prevent urban sprawl.