Artificial Habitat – Terrestrial
Artificial terrestrial habitats are landscapes shaped by human activity, ranging from agricultural fields and plantations to urban areas and degraded forests. While these environments are heavily altered from their natural state, they still support a wide range of wildlife that has adapted to coexist with human presence.
Species such as rodents, birds, insects, and even large mammals have learned to thrive in these human-made habitats. However, intensive land use often leads to biodiversity loss, habitat fragmentation, and pollution, making conservation strategies essential for maintaining ecological balance.
According to the IUCN Red List, artificial terrestrial habitats include the following key subcategories:
- Arable Land – Farmlands used for growing crops, supporting species like rodents, insects, and birds that feed on agricultural waste.
- Pastureland – Grasslands modified for livestock grazing, which can still provide habitat for grassland birds, small mammals, and pollinators.
- Plantations – Large-scale tree farms, such as palm oil and rubber plantations, often replacing natural forests but still offering some habitat for adaptable species.
- Rural Gardens – Small-scale cultivated areas near homes, attracting pollinators, birds, and small reptiles.
- Urban Areas – Cities and towns where wildlife such as pigeons, raccoons, foxes, and even larger animals like deer have adapted to human presence.
- Subtropical/Tropical Heavily Degraded Former Forest – Once-pristine forests that have been cleared or degraded, often leading to fragmented ecosystems struggling to support native species.
While artificial terrestrial habitats often replace natural ecosystems, they can still play an important role in wildlife conservation when managed properly. Green spaces, wildlife corridors, and sustainable land-use practices can help mitigate biodiversity loss and provide refuge for species in an increasingly human-dominated world.
No animals found for this category.