Modeling the effects of land cover and use on landscape capability for urban ungulate populations

Land use priorities in many urban areas focus on greening projects such as developing greenspace and planting trees (Konijnendijk 2003). Increasing greenspace creates a more aesthetically pleasing environment for urban residents (Campbell 1996), provides important ecosystem services (Nowak et al. 2008) and facilitates wildlife movement (Schiller and Horn 1997). Greenspaces also provide resources to wildlife, including food, cover and water, which are essential for survival and reproduction (Leopold 1933). The supposition is that these factors develop over time from well-planned urban greening projects.