What does a wildfire mean to wildlife?
- Moira Rosser-Peterson
- Aug 4
- 2 min read
~sourced from an article by BC SPCA~
Photo credit: Dashwood Volunteer Fire Department
The devastating Wesley Ridge (Cameron Lake) wildfire that our brave firefighting crews are trying to control affects not just humans but many wild creatures as well. While wild animals can escape from fires, the resultant change to their habitat and food resources will impact generations to come.
Wild animals can sense the danger of wildfire. Bigger and faster animals can run or fly away from the flames or seek refuge in water to avoid injury, while smaller animals may try to shelter in logs, under rocks, or by hiding in their burrows.
Predators may take advantage of the chaos and hunt fleeing small or young animals unable to keep up.
Sadly, wildfires do kill animals -usually slower moving species, like nestling or fledgling birds. Animals may succumb to smoke inhalation, oxygen deprivation, or serious injuries. They may also suffer from heat exhaustion and dehydration.
It is after a wildfire has moved through an area that the biggest impact is felt. Wildlife may die due to habitat loss as food sources and nesting sites are burned in the fire. The burned landscape left after a wildfire often results in a new type of habitat, replacing forests with shrubs and grass. Invasive species may move in before native species get the chance and have harmful impacts on the landscape.
Species that depend on old growth forests for their diet and shelter are hurt the most. Wildlife that relocates to a new region must compete with other wildlife for the same resources and potentially fight over territory. This forced migration may also cause animals to wander into urban and suburban areas they would normally avoid.
Here are some ways you can help wild animals during wildfire season:
Prevent forest fires - obey campfire bans and do not smoke in or around forests.
Don’t feed wild animals -- it is not good for them to become dependent on humans. They can find food on their own, even in severe conditions.
Don’t scare the animals – if they’re fleeing a fire, they are already scared and tired. Be patient as they rest before moving on.
Keep your pets on a leash or inside to prevent clashes with wildlife.
If you find an injured animal or suspect they need help, contact your local wildlife rehabilitation centre.
You can help the wildlife in care at NIWRA by making a financial contribution on our secure website. Thank you so much for caring about wildlife!
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