Latest news with #LauraAdams
CTV News
6 days ago
- General
- CTV News
Dive-bombed or not, Vancouverites are still pro-crow, researchers say
Celina Slaght, a medical volunteer, feeds a fledgling crow at the Wildlife Rescue Association of B.C., in Burnaby, B.C., on Thursday, May 29, 2025. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck VANCOUVER — Along her journey towards understanding Vancouver's crows, psychology professor Suzanne MacDonald says she made a friend. It's a crow that brings her gifts after she set up a bird feeder at her home in the neighbourhood of Kitsilano. Once, it was a barnacle-covered shell, which MacDonald treasures. Other times, it was 'bits of garbage' that MacDonald doesn't fancy much, though she 'appreciates the sentiment.' 'I think he definitely recognizes me. When other people go out on my patio, he doesn't come to them. He knows me,' said MacDonald. Vancouver has long had a love-hate relationship with its crows, whose dive-bombing attacks on pedestrians are a sure sign of springtime in the city. But a new survey co-authored by MacDonald suggests that, on the human side at least, it's mostly love. 'I think that many people feel a deep connection to crows because they seem to see the world the way humans do: they are intelligent, excellent problem solvers, they recognize individual humans, and they are highly social, culturally complex beings,' said MacDonald, a psychology professor at York University, who divides her time between Toronto and Vancouver. MacDonald and Laura Adams, who teaches psychology at Langara College, teamed up to survey hundreds of people in B.C.'s Lower Mainland to examine their relationship with crows. They said 67 per cent of people had positive feelings about crows, compared to only five per cent with negative feelings, in findings released this month that the researchers hope will inform an academic publication later. As for the crows, many make their feelings known during the spring nesting season, when the Wildlife Rescue Association of B.C. says 'overprotective' parent birds swoop on anyone who gets too close to a nest. It's a common experience across Vancouver — an online crowdsourced map of crow attacks in Vancouver is dotted with red crow symbols marking swooping sites gathered over several years. But Adams said most people felt 'very positive' about crows, even if they had been dive-bombed. 'We were really hoping to compare the types of people who loved crows and the types of people who had very negative opinions on crows because talking to the general public, people seem to be in both camps,' said Adams. But it turns out most respondents were crow fans. 'We found that 64 per cent of people said that they'd been dive-bombed by a crow. So, when you put that in the context of 67 per cent of people feeling very positive about crows, that means there are a lot of people who've been dive-bombed but still love crows,' said Adams, 'We found that really interesting.' Many of the 468 survey respondents shared stories about their unique relationships with the birds. 'I think one of the interesting parts is just how much people wanted to talk about crows for no reward at all,' said Adams. Vancouver has even had its own celebrity crow, named Canuck, that was well known for riding the SkyTrain, stealing a knife from a crime scene in 2016, and forging an unlikely friendship with a mail carrier. Adams said the survey found 53 per cent of people felt crows were a symbol of Vancouver. Wildlife photographer Liron Gertsman has been fascinated with crows since he was five, and that obsession turned into a documentary, filmed with friend Jack Bailey. Their 10-minute production, 'The Commute,' captures the story of a massive murder of crows — up to 10,000 birds strong — that congregates at Still Creek in Burnaby at night. The huge flock is a familiar sight in Metro Vancouver skies, particularly in winter months. Gertsman called it an 'incredible phenomenon.' 'They're just so smart,' he said, as he described the challenge of locating the birds, only to turn up for more filming and 'they'd be nowhere to be seen.' 'So, they were playing games with us a little bit. They were taking us on a not a wild-goose chase, but a wild-crow chase around the city,' he said. Gertsman said that during filming he and Bailey were pooped on 'all the time,' but it didn't dampen their enthusiasm for their subjects and their 'beautiful daily commute.' He's still watching crows during the current nesting season. 'There's a crow nest that is just barely visible outside my window, tucked into the tree, which is fun to watch,' Gertsman said. 'I think it's a lovely thing to be able to look outside your window in the morning and see a crow because it represents that little bit of nature that is able to exist within even a pretty big city.' The Wildlife Rescue Association said nesting season lasts from April to July, meaning 'anxious bird parents are out in full force' to protect their young. The association said it's seeing a spike in reports of fledgling crows on the ground, and there are 11 injured and orphaned crows in Wildlife Rescue's care. The organization's co-executive director, Linda Bakker, said it's common to find young crows on the ground in late spring as they learn to fly. Not all need help, but if a grounded bird looks like it's in trouble, people should can take a photo and contact Wildlife Rescue, she said. She said the group often gets calls from people asking how to deal with crow attacks. But she said that when it happened to her, she wasn't worried. 'I was excited when it happened. I was like, oh, there's a crow, and he's protecting his nest. That's great. I will stay out of your way,' said Bakker. MacDonald said it's important for people to understand how we live with other species, particularly in an urban environment where many animals have been pushed out. 'But some of them, like crows, actually thrive with us, and that makes them very special,' she said. MacDonald says daily encounters with crows should be seen as a reminder that 'if we live in a city that has no wildlife, then we live in a dead city.' 'We want to live in a very vibrant city where nature is at our front door and our back door and everywhere, and crows remind us that is the case in the Lower Mainland.' This report by Nono Shen, The Canadian Press, was first published on May 30, 2025.
Yahoo
28-01-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Relentless California wildfires fuel Los Angeles housing crisis driving up rents, prices
LOS ANGELES – The recent infernos in Southern California have ignited a housing crisis, with rental prices exploding and home values reeling across the region, according to one senior real estate analyst. "The Los Angeles rental market is experiencing a surge in demand from those who lost their homes or can't return to them after getting severe damage from recent wildfires," said Laura Adams with AceableAgent, an online educational platform and resource for agents. Insured Losses From Los Angeles Firestorm Estimated To Be In Excess Of $28 Billion The long-term consequences of the ongoing wildfires on the region's real estate market remain to be seen. However, the disaster has clearly created a significant and complex set of challenges for residents across the city. With an estimated 10,000 homes destroyed and 40,000 residents displaced, real estate agents are seeing a perfect storm. "The increased demand and loss of available homes will cause a spike in housing prices to rent or buy in the foreseeable future," Adams notes. Waiting For Daddy: Toll Of California Wildfires Hangs Heavy On Firefighters' Families Neighborhoods untouched by the flames are experiencing a significant influx of displaced residents seeking shelter. "So, they will see an increase in demand and prices, such as rents climbing hundreds or thousands of dollars a month, depending on the location, size and amenities," Adams told FOX Weather. Some areas of Los Angeles have rent control that limits how much a landlord can increase the rent when an existing lease ends. Also, according to the Los Angeles County Department of Consumer and Business Affairs, the price of goods and services, including rental housing, hotels and emergency supplies, can't be hiked more than 10% during an emergency. Consumers are encouraged to report any suspected price gouging to the California Attorney General. How To Watch Fox Weather "Los Angeles was already in a housing shortage before the wildfires, so the disaster will cause an extreme shortage of homes to rent or buy," Adams said. As insurance claims are submitted and paid to homeowners for their losses and temporary housing, many will be able to begin repairs and new construction. However, the process could take several years, depending on FEMA assistance, the local permitting process and the availability of skilled labor, Adams adds. Strangers Give Hope To Los Angeles Single Mother After Hurricane Of Fire Takes Everything Yet the path forward for seniors is uncertain. According to Adams, many will need to weigh the financial feasibility of rebuilding against the appeal of relocating to more manageable living situations, such as low-maintenance condominiums. As firefighters gain the upper hand against the wildfires burning across the Los Angeles area for three weeks, with the trio of major blazes now at least 95% contained, a new threat looms: mudslides. While much-needed rain has finally fallen, effectively dousing the flames, it has also saturated the scorched Earth, increasing the risk of devastating mudflows – likely damaging additional article source: Relentless California wildfires fuel Los Angeles housing crisis driving up rents, prices
Arabian Business
28-01-2025
- Business
- Arabian Business
Dubai real estate market set for major growth as population nears 4m and major investments pave way for positive future
Dubai's population at the end of 2024 reached 3,826,130, reflecting an 8 per cent growth compared to the fourth quarter of 2023. Excluding golden visa holders, whose final numbers are pending but projected to double from 2022 to 2023, this milestone underscores Dubai's sustained appeal as a global hub for business, tourism, and investment. The Dubai Real Estate Market Report 2024, by Laura Adams, Secondary Sales Director at Provident Real Estate, highlights Dubai's attractiveness to high-net-worth individuals and professionals, reinforcing its position as a leading destination for economic and lifestyle opportunities. Dubai real estate Dubai's strategic plan aims to solidify its standing as the world's premier business hub through ambitious initiatives: Doubling foreign trade: Export and import volumes are set to double, drawing global investors Fostering 30 global unicorn companies: Tech-driven innovation and startups are expected to redefine Dubai's economy Sustainable industries: Renewable energy and eco-friendly policies are powering Dubai's push for sustainable development. Dubai's Vision 2040 is a comprehensive urban development strategy which anticipates the population to grow from 3.3m to 7.8m by 2040. Highlights include: Population growth: 3.3m to 7.8m by 2040 Green and recreational areas: A 105 per cent increase in green spaces Public transport access: 55 per cent of residents to live within 800m of public transport Public beaches expansion: A 400 per cent increase in public beaches Hospitality and tourism spaces: A 134 per cent expansion to accommodate growing demand Nature reserves and industrial land use: 60 per cent of land allocated to nature reserves and 1.7bn sq ft dedicated to economic activities Dubai is also enhancing connectivity and sustainability through major infrastructure projects: RTA roads: Initiatives like the Al Shindagha Corridor and Hessa Street Expansion are easing congestion and improving mobility Smart traffic systems: Cutting-edge technology is reducing travel times and boosting road safety DLD Smart Rental Index: A new tool ensuring transparency in Dubai's rental market by providing accurate, building-specific rental data Laura Adams said: 'Dubai's rapid population growth and ambitious visions for the future highlight the city's unmatched ability to attract global investors and residents. Our market report showcases how strategic planning and innovative infrastructure projects are driving demand and solidifying Dubai's position as a world-class destination for real estate investment.' Dubai's commitment to its Vision 2033 and Vision 2040 strategies ensures a sustainable, future-ready city. With transformative infrastructure projects, population growth, and expanding real estate opportunities, Dubai remains at the forefront of global prominence. Investors and residents can look forward to a city that offers luxury, sustainability, and dynamic growth.
Zawya
27-01-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Dubai Real Estate Market Report 2024: Population growth and investment opportunities
RELATED TOPICS REAL ESTATE RELATED COMPANIES Provident Real E Smart Traffic Doubling Foreign Trade Dubai, UAE – Dubai's population at the end of 2024 reached an impressive 3,826,130, reflecting an 8% growth compared to the fourth quarter of 2023. Excluding golden visa holders, whose final numbers are pending release but projected to double from 2022 to 2023, this milestone underscores Dubai's sustained appeal as a global hub for business, tourism, and investment. Dubai Real Estate Market Report 2024, authored by Laura Adams, Secondary Sales Director at Provident Real Estate, highlights Dubai's attractiveness to high-net-worth individuals and professionals, reinforcing its position as a leading destination for economic and lifestyle opportunities. Key Drivers of Market Growth Vision 2033 Dubai's strategic plan aims to solidify its standing as the world's premier business hub through ambitious initiatives: Doubling Foreign Trade: Export and import volumes are set to double, drawing global investors. Fostering 30 Global Unicorn Companies: Tech-driven innovation and startups are expected to redefine Dubai's economy. Sustainable Industries: Renewable energy and eco-friendly policies are powering Dubai's push for sustainable development. Vision 2040 This comprehensive urban development strategy anticipates the population to grow from 3.3 million to 7.8 million by 2040. Highlights include: Population Growth: 3.3M to 7.8M by 2040. Green and Recreational Areas: A 105% increase in green spaces. Public Transport Access: 55% of residents to live within 800 meters of public transport. Public Beaches Expansion: A 400% increase in public beaches. Hospitality and Tourism Spaces: A 134% expansion to accommodate growing demand. Nature Reserves and Industrial Land Use: 60% of land allocated to nature reserves and 1.7 billion square feet dedicated to economic activities. Transformative Infrastructure Projects Dubai is enhancing connectivity and sustainability through major infrastructure projects: RTA Roads: Initiatives like the Al Shindagha Corridor and Hessa Street Expansion are easing congestion and improving mobility. Smart Traffic Systems: Cutting-edge technology is reducing travel times and boosting road safety. DLD Smart Rental Index: A new tool ensuring transparency in Dubai's rental market by providing accurate, building-specific rental data. 'Dubai's rapid population growth and ambitious visions for the future highlight the city's unmatched ability to attract global investors and residents,' said Laura Adams, Secondary Sales Director. 'Our market report showcases how strategic planning and innovative infrastructure projects are driving demand and solidifying Dubai's position as a world-class destination for real estate investment.' Looking Ahead Dubai's commitment to its Vision 2033 and Vision 2040 strategies ensures a sustainable, future-ready city. With transformative infrastructure projects, population growth, and expanding real estate opportunities, Dubai remains at the forefront of global prominence. Investors and residents can look forward to a city that offers luxury, sustainability, and dynamic growth. For all your real estate needs in Dubai, Provident Estate your trusted partner. With a deep understanding of the market and a commitment to excellence, Provident Real Estate is poised to guide you through the evolving landscape of sustainable real estate investments. About Provident Estate: Pursuing excellence since 2008. Provident Estate is a one-stop shop for all things real estate. With a resolution to always offer 5-star service to their clients, Provident Estate are here for property requirements and queries. At the crux of the business, Provident Estate work relentlessly to provide hassle-free tailored real estate advice and consultancy for investors and families alike who are looking to find the perfect home. Provident Estate takes pride in the diverse portfolio of not just services but also the team members behind the company. With over 22 different nationalities speaking 25+ different languages, all are ready to answer property-related questions. Provident are available to help with buying and leasing as well as property management all the way through to looking for the correct financing options or even finding a perfect holiday home. The company pride themselves in being transparent, honest and professional to deliver the best results to clients.
