Urban parks lack vital midstory vegetation, harming wildlife and human well-being

A University of Queensland study found that many urban parks consist only of tall shade trees and mown lawns, missing the crucial midstory layer of shrubs and small trees between 1 and 10 meters tall. This vegetation provides food and shelter for small animals and birds, and its absence reduces the quality of green space for people. The researchers suggest that with proper lighting and sightlines, denser vegetation can be safely incorporated into existing parks.