Did you know?

In 1986, Chernobyl was the worst nuclear disaster in history, spewing thousands of tons of radioactive waste into the atmosphere and prompting the evacuation of more than 100,000 people.

30 years after, the abandoned wasteland around the Chernobyl nuclear power station is one of the most important habitats for scientists studying native wildlife in Europe.

A group of scientists are trying to answer the question: is radioactivity less damaging to natural ecosystems than humans?

With humans having deserted the area, wild animal and bird species are roaming what is effectively one of Europe’s biggest wildlife reserves. Wild boar, wolves, elk, and deer in particular have thrived in the forest and grassland landscape.

Some scientists seem to think that although radiation is a risk for wildlife, when humans are around, animals are simply shot or lose their habitat.

Source: The Telegraph