With the increasing frequency and intensity of wildfires the overall balance of our forests is now completely disrupted.
A forest destroyed by wildfire in British Columbia. Photo by DK
Johnston / Getty Images
Officials have called 2023 the worst year on record for forest fires in
Canada.
In addition to destroying millions of hectares of forests, wildfires can
have significant impacts on wildlife and their habitats. The effects of a
forest fire on wildlife can vary depending on the intensity, severity, and
frequency of the fire, as well as the specific species and ecosystems
involved.
Here are some ways in which forest fires can negatively impact wildlife:
Direct Mortality. Wild animals have evolved to sense
danger, including fires. In many cases, they know what to do to keep
themselves and their families safe. Some animals like bears, ungulates,
coyotes and cougars will flee and travel large distances. Other smaller
animals will try to tough out the blaze, climbing trees, hiding under logs
and rocks or burying themselves in the soil.
But despite their best efforts to find safety, many wild animals will be
killed directly by the smoke, flames, or heat of a wildfire. This is
especially true for slower-moving species including older animals, young
animals, injured animals, snakes, lizards, frogs, nesting birds, porcupines
and small ground-dwelling mammals like squirrels, rabbits, voles, and mice.
Animals who are not killed directly from wildfire can suffer from ongoing
risks and health problems. For example, research suggests that forest fires
can weaken an animal’s immune system, making them more susceptible to
disease and infections (Albery et al., 2021). Sanderfoot et al. (2021)
argues smoke inhalation can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning, respiratory
distress, neurological impairment and other acute and chronic health
conditions in wildlife.
Habitat Destruction and Loss of Food Sources. Forest fires
can destroy or severely damage the habitats of many wildlife species. For
animals that rely on vegetation for food, a forest fire can destroy their
food sources. This can lead to food shortages and malnutrition, and create
competition in new areas with other wildlife.
The loss of habitat may also drive wildlife to nearby urban environments,
increasing their proximity to humans. It’s important to be tolerant to these
new visitors and extend compassion towards all wild animals in our
communities, especially after wildfires. To help prevent wildlife
encounters, please secure attractants including garbage, fallen fruit,
compost, and other wildlife attractants.
Predator-Prey Dynamics. Forest fires can disrupt
predator-prey dynamics. Predators may take advantage of the confusion and
disorientation caused by fires to catch prey more easily. On the other hand,
some prey species may be able to escape predators due to the chaos caused by
the fire.
Loss of Shelter and Nesting Sites. Many animals rely on
specific features of the landscape, such as fallen logs, snags (standing
dead trees), and dense vegetation for shelter and nesting. Forest fires can
destroy these features, affecting breeding success and their overall
population.
Soil and Water Quality. The increased runoff and erosion
that can occur after a fire can negatively impact water quality in nearby
rivers and streams, affecting aquatic ecosystems and the animals that depend
on them such as salmon.
Long-Term Effects. The recovery process after a fire can
take years, even decades. During this time, wildlife populations and
individuals may struggle to rebound as they wait for the ecosystem to
restore itself.
While forest fires can have negative impacts, it’s worth noting they are
also a natural part of many ecosystems. Some species including ungulates
have evolved to thrive in post-fire environments, and certain plants even
depend on fire to release their seeds and stimulate growth. In some cases,
fire can promote habitat diversity and maintain ecosystem health.
However, with the increasing frequency and intensity of wildfires due to
factors like climate change, combined with continuous pressures of human
activities and development, the overall balance of our forests is now
completely disrupted.
The future for wildlife in Canada is extremely concerning and uncertain. We
need to act now.
Our hearts go out to all of the people, animals, and forests who have been negatively impacted by fire.
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