Scientists at Yale School of the Environment have developed a groundbreaking approach to tracking urban wildlife using DNA found in soil. This new method gives city planners better tools to protect animals as cities continue to expand worldwide. The research team, led by Nyeema Harris, collected soil samples from 21 parks across Detroit during winter and summer months in 2023. These samples contained environmental DNA (eDNA) – genetic material naturally shed by organisms into their surroundings through skin cells, hair, waste, and other biological traces. “Thanks to Dr. Hallam’s molecular expertise, we’ve added eDNA to our toolkit, allowing for a … Continue reading Yale Soil DNA Study Reveals 23 Mammal Species in Detroit Parks, Shows How Wildlife Adapts to City Life