Интегрированное письмо TOEFL

📖 Текст для чтения

The expansion of urban areas into natural habitats is often justified by the need for housing and economic development. However, this practice poses severe threats to biodiversity. First, habitat fragmentation disrupts animal migration patterns. Many species, such as large mammals, require vast contiguous territories to find food and mates. When roads and buildings divide their habitats, these animals become isolated, leading to reduced genetic diversity and higher risks of local extinction. Second, urban sprawl introduces invasive species. Construction activities and landscaping bring non-native plants and animals, which outcompete indigenous species for resources. For example, the spread of the emerald ash borer in North American cities has devastated native ash tree populations. Third, light and noise pollution from cities alter animal behavior. Nocturnal animals, like bats and owls, struggle to hunt or navigate because artificial lighting masks natural cues. Moreover, chronic noise from traffic can interfere with bird songs, making it difficult for males to attract mates. These factors collectively undermine ecosystem health, suggesting that urban expansion should be more strictly regulated to protect wildlife.

🎧 Лекция

The reading raises valid concerns, but it overlooks several counterarguments that weaken its claims. First, while habitat fragmentation is a problem, many species have adapted to urban environments. For instance, coyotes and deer now thrive in suburban areas by using green corridors and parks as temporary habitats. Moreover, modern urban planning increasingly incorporates wildlife crossings—such as overpasses and underpasses—which have proven effective in reconnecting fragmented populations. Second, the claim about invasive species is overstated. Urban development often replaces degraded agricultural land, which is already dominated by invasive plants, with parks and gardens that can support native pollinators. In fact, some cities have implemented strict biosecurity measures, like quarantining imported soil and plant materials, which significantly reduce the introduction of invasives. Finally, the effects of light and noise pollution are not universally negative. Some bird species, such as pigeons and sparrows, have altered their songs to be higher-pitched and longer, allowing them to cope with traffic noise. Additionally, artificial lighting can actually benefit certain nocturnal insects by attracting prey, which helps bats feed more efficiently. Therefore, while urban expansion has impacts, they are not as catastrophic as the reading suggests, and many can be mitigated through thoughtful design.