Understanding Urbanization's Effects on Wildlife
Listen to the following segment from a lecture about the impact of urbanization on wildlife:
Professor: Good afternoon, class! Today, we are focusing on urbanization and its multifaceted effects on wildlife. Urban expansion leads to a significant alteration of natural habitats. For example, as cities grow, forests and wetlands are often converted into residential and commercial areas. This not only reduces the living space available for many species but also fragments their habitats, making it challenging for animals to find food and mates. Moreover, urban areas introduce various types of pollution, including noise and light, which can be detrimental to the behavior and physiological health of wildlife. Interestingly, some species, such as raccoons and pigeons, have adapted remarkably well to urban environments, exploiting the resources that cities offer. However, these adaptations often come at a cost, as these creatures may face increased risks from vehicles and human interactions.
Note: This question has been adapted from its original format to accommodate a reading-based version. In the official TOEFL exam, speaking and listening sections require verbal responses and audio prompts, which are not represented here. Please note that this adaptation may not fully reflect the nature or difficulty of the official exam. The audio feature for these sections will be available soon.
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