Every year, wildfires in British Columbia destroy lives and communities, endangering animals and people. Wildlife has evolved strategies to fly, run or burrow to escape the fires, but the alteration of habitat and food resources will have lasting effects for generations to come.

What happens to wildlife during a forest fire?

Most animals sense the danger posed by forest fires. While many larger and faster animals will run or fly away from the flames or seek shelter in water to avoid injury, smaller animals may try to seek shelter in tree trunks, under rocks, or in their burrows.

Some predators may even take advantage of the confusion and prey on small or young animals that flee the flames or stay behind because they cannot keep up.

Do animals die in a forest fire?

Unfortunately, some animals also die in wildfires. These are usually slower animals like porcupines or young animals like nestlings or birdwings that cannot escape. Animals that do not survive wildfires often die from smoke inhalation, lack of oxygen, or severe injuries. Animals, including birds, can also suffer from heat exhaustion and dehydration.

What happens to wildlife after a forest fire?

The greatest impacts occur when a wildfire has already passed through an area. Wildlife can perish from habitat loss as food sources and nesting sites are burned in the fire. The devastating flames destroy the food, water and shelter that wildlife needs to survive – an impact that can last for years. The burned landscape left behind after a wildfire often leads to a new habitat type, with forests replaced by shrubs and grass.

Species that rely on old-growth forests for food and habitat will suffer the most. Others that are able to relocate to new areas will compete with other wildlife for the same resources and may face territorial conflicts. This new migration may also cause animals to migrate to urban and suburban areas, where they will come into contact with people they would normally avoid.

How can you help wildlife?

During wildfire season or severe drought, you can help wildlife: