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Urbanization Sparks Rapid Evolution in Chipmunks and Voles

6/30/2025

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Summary

Story summary

In a groundbreaking study, researchers at the Field Museum in Chicago revealed that urbanization has spurred rapid evolution in eastern chipmunks and voles over the last 125 years. Chipmunks have grown larger yet developed smaller teeth, while voles have seen their ear bones shrink, likely as a response to the cacophony of city life. These transformations highlight the profound, often challenging effects of urban environments on wildlife.

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Story summary

In a groundbreaking study, researchers at the Field Museum in Chicago revealed that urbanization has spurred rapid evolution in eastern chipmunks and voles over the last 125 years. Chipmunks have grown larger yet developed smaller teeth, while voles have seen their ear bones shrink, likely as a response to the cacophony of city life. These transformations highlight the profound, often challenging effects of urban environments on wildlife.