Humans v birds: poorly managed urban growth squeezes biodiversity

Melbourne bird survey supports research suggesting native species thrive better if planning includes environmental reserves, rather than backyards

The outskirts of Melbourne are a maze of newly-paved culs-de-sac. Freestanding homes twist in on each other, filling the footprint of their small street blocks.

On the other side of the road, short wooden stakes have been tied with fluorescent tape to mark out the next development.