Be sensitive about appearing to be a snoop in such areas, however, and ask permission where appropriate. The above scene shows the John Heinz National Wildlife refuge near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Many national wildlife refuges are close to urban areas. This one has walking trails and an excellent environmental education program. When you scan an urban landscape, if you spot a tree, bush, or patch of weeds producing flowers or fruits, take special note.
Insects swarm around and into flower clusters, and birds flock after the insects.
Garbage dumps often attract scavengers such as sea gulls and vultures, and even occasional mammals such as raccoons. In railroad yards where grain is cleaned from cars, birds may flock to eat swept-out wheat and oats. The grasshopper in the picture here was spotted on an oak leaf, which he was not nibbling, and I have no idea why he was there or what he was doing. Any weedy, bushy area may be rich in animals. However, in urban areas they may also be dangerous.