Life in the deadlands: unearthing reasons for visiting and visitor perceptions of wildlife in London’s Magnificent Seven cemeteries

Abstract

Cemeteries, traditionally reserved for mourning, are also valuable urban green spaces contributing to ecosystem services, wildlife habitats, and human well-being. This study focuses on London’s Magnificent Seven cemeteries, which vary in habitat and usage, from semi-wild nature reserves to active burial sites. In autumn 2023, we conducted non-participatory observations of human activities and wildlife presence, and surveyed visitors (n = 176) regarding their perceptions of birds (crows, magpies, parakeets, robins, owls, blackbirds), mammals (fox, grey squirrel, bats, rats, cats, hedgehogs, rabbits, deer) and activities (e.g. biking, dog walking, picnicking). Our observations showed that visitors primarily engaged in solitary or accompanied walks. Observed animals included crows (Corvus spp.) and pigeons (Columba spp.), as well as grey squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis) and foxes (Vulpes vulpes). Regarding visitor perceptions, wildlife was generally perceived positively, with invasive ring-necked parakeets (Psittacula krameri) as well as non-native grey squirrels occasionally evoking negative perceptions. Activities like grave visiting and solitary walks are widely accepted, while picnicking, biking and sports are less favored, with younger participants and locals generally being more accepting to more lively activities. Urban cemeteries play multifunctional roles beyond mourning, offering green spaces for recreation and wildlife habitats. This study highlights the importance of recognizing cemeteries as critical urban refuges for both people and wildlife, demonstrating that sacred grounds and urban wilderness can coexist to create restorative green spaces in busy cities. The future survival of inner-city cemeteries depends on their rejuvenation and integration into local communities, enabling them to act as nature-based solutions to withstand development pressures.