As cities expand, urban wildlife like coyotes increasingly share spaces with humans. Designing outdoor seating to support these adaptable predators can foster coexistence while enriching urban ecosystems. Here’s how:
1. Natural Materials: Use untreated wood, stone, or recycled materials for benches and tables. These blend into coyote habitats and avoid harmful chemicals.
2. Strategic Placement: Position seating near green corridors or urban parks, allowing coyotes safe passage while minimizing human-wildlife conflicts.
3. Low-Impact Lighting: Opt for motion-sensor or amber lighting around seating areas to reduce disruption to coyotes’ nocturnal habits.
4. Integrated Landscaping: Surround seating with native plants that provide cover and foraging opportunities, supporting prey species coyotes rely on.
5. Educational Signage: Incorporate subtle signage to raise awareness about coyote behavior, encouraging respectful interactions.
By thoughtfully designing outdoor seating, cities can create spaces that benefit both humans and coyotes, turning urban areas into thriving ecological networks.