99% Invisible Uptown Squirrel [update]
9 snips
May 28, 2024 
Jamie Allen, the visionary behind the Central Park squirrel census, shares the fascinating journey of counting NYC's eastern gray squirrels. Highlights include quirky tales of squirrels causing comical power outages and how one even influenced a technical glitch on Wall Street. Allen dives into the historical context of squirrels in urban settings and discusses their ecological role as invasive species. The conversation also touches on the delicate balance between urban wildlife and human interaction, showcasing the importance of connecting with nature.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Early City Squirrels
- In the 1800s, squirrels were rare in cities like Philadelphia and Boston.
- One escaped pet squirrel in Manhattan drew a large crowd, requiring police intervention.
Squirrel Introductions
- Squirrels were intentionally introduced to cities, starting with Philadelphia in 1847.
- Early introductions often failed due to unsuitable urban environments and lack of food.
Parks and Squirrel Growth
- 19th-century cities lacked the large parks and tree cover necessary for squirrel survival.
- The development of large, nature-mimicking parks in the late 1800s significantly aided squirrel populations.