Parks and humans

Study a park!

Park animals and plants. The Viinikka park in Tampere. The image can also be viewed with VR glasses. © Juha Salminen.

Parts of the city

The black-headed gull has adapted to life in the city.

Different parts of cities and towns are used for different purposes. These areas also provide unique living environments for plants and animals.

The dense urban centres of towns and cities can be difficult environments for plant and animal life. Plant roots cannot penetrate stone or concrete, which is why they only grow in small cracks between buildings or on the side of the road. However, even city centres can be quite rich in plant life.

Parks are giant outdoor playgrounds! They're special places filled with trees, grass, flowers, and sometimes even lakes or rivers. Parks are where nature and people come together to have fun and relax.

The importance of parks:

Green spaces: Parks are like huge gardens where you can breathe in fresh air and soak up sunshine.
Animal friends: Parks are home to many animals. You might spot birds, squirrels, or even butterflies fluttering around.
Exercise central: Parks are perfect for getting active. You can play sports, ride bikes, or simply enjoy a brisk walk. It's like a giant gym, but way more fun!
Picnic paradise: Ever had a picnic? Parks are the best spot for it! Spread out a blanket, munch on sandwiches, and enjoy the great outdoors with your friends and family.

Parks are important green spaces!

Plant and animal life in cities is usually at its most diverse near residential areas that consist of detached houses. There, you can find shrubs, hedges, fruit trees, and all kinds of flowers. Residential areas provide a diverse environment for various animals, such as hedgehogs and birds.

Study the parks of cities with Google Maps.

Maps of cities

The city of Mumbai. Can you identify different parts of the city, parks, and a river? You can access the map in Google Maps.

The city of Nairobi. Can you identify different parts of the city, parks, and main roads? You can access the map in Google Maps.

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Test your knowledge

pine and spruce trees
statues and benches
flowerbeds
many trees
mosses, fungi and shrubs
grass

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Terminology

Parks and humans

Term	Explanation
residential area	A part of a city or town used primarily for housing.
city centre	A part of a city or town used primarily for services and compact housing.
park	A part of a city or town where plants are grown and taken care of.