Nature and Ecology of Denver Parks

Denver is home to thousands of wildlife species and has an ecosystem that supports scavengers, herbivores, omnivores, people, pets, vehicles, and buildings. People in the city encounter wildlife in their daily lives, from birds to other animals like squirrels. The creatures have adapted to the way of life in Denver, and they take advantage of the habitats created by the city. The city of Denver does what it can to impact the growth of wildlife positively. Many species live in parks, river bottoms, neat water bodies, and in undeveloped pieces of land. Some species such as raccoons, squirrels, geese, and coyotes have adapted the city life, and they thrive very well there.

Ecology of Denver Park

In the Denver Mountain Parks, there is ecological diversity in all the parks. Some parks have over 3000 species, and all the species coexist peacefully. Taking an example of the Rocky Mountain Park, it is home to over 300 species of birds, amphibians, reptiles, fish species, and lots of insects. The plants and animals in the park have become adapted to the mountain ecosystem. They all coexist the way they should. The ecological diversity in the park is like the diversity in the broader Western landscape, ranging from Alaska to Denver. Most of the species in the parks live seasonally or full-time, depending on their tolerance conditions. Some birds in the parks, like Western Tanagers, migrate during the summer. You’ll see them moving to other countries, mostly Mexico and for the winter. The mammals found in the park ecosystem include mule deer, porcupines, coyotes, and black bears.

Natural Areas of Denver Park

That said, there are five designated natural areas in the Denver Parks and Recreation. These areas tell us about the people, geology, and landscape of Denver. They include Parkfield, Heron Pond, Camp Rollandet, Inspiration Point, and Paul A. Hentzell. The areas were designated because of the wildlife habitat in them, native vegetation, and their connection to the community. The areas can be used as classrooms to teach about Denver’s ecology. They function as areas of biological needs and natural beauty. While in these areas, it is important to stay on the designated trails. Dispose of any trash you might have in a receptacle. Additionally, make sure not to pick the flowers and keep your dog on the leash at all times.

Native Grasses

The native grasses are usually the major source of food for Denver wildlife. For that reason, the city of Denver plays its role in protecting and restoring the grass to sustain life in the ecosystem. The city monitors and evaluates the situations at the parks. They ensure they are meeting short-term and long-term goals of the natural resources required. Common measures to protect the native grass include removing competition to the native grass. This includes noxious weeds which compete for moisture and nutrients. Selective mowing is also practiced to maintain a healthy population of native grass. Mowing takes place once every year or after every two years.

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