Wildfires have devastating effects on both humans and animals. While people often have support systems in place, wildlife suffers immense losses with fewer protections. The increasing frequency and severity of wildfires are driven by multiple factors, including climate change, urban development, and agricultural practices.
As temperatures rise and the climate becomes drier, fire seasons are becoming longer. Beyond climate change, human activity has contributed to the increasing number of wildfires. In some regions, urban expansion into fire-prone areas raises the risk of ignition. Fires in chaparral ecosystems, which naturally burn every few decades, are now occurring more frequently due to human development. Many fires are caused by electrical equipment, power lines, fireworks, and even vehicles.
Agriculture also plays a significant role. Non-native grasses introduced for livestock feed burn more rapidly than native vegetation, accelerating fire spread. Water usage in farming further exacerbates fire risks. In areas with extensive dairy and crop farming, vast amounts of water are diverted to irrigation, reducing moisture in the landscape and increasing fire susceptibility.
The impact of wildfires on animals is profound. Though it is difficult to estimate the exact number of animal casualties, fires have led to mass wildlife deaths. In past fire events, millions of animals have perished, either from direct exposure to flames or from the loss of habitat and food sources. Many animals, unable to find safe passage away from the fires, succumb to starvation or injuries.
Some animals receive limited protection during wildfires, but policies are inconsistent. After past disasters, emergency relief measures were introduced to assist pets and service animals. However, protections for farmed animals remain insufficient. Large-scale farms struggle with evacuation logistics, and economic incentives often lead to animals being left behind. Existing indemnity programs compensate farmers for losses, but the cost of evacuating thousands of animals makes relocation impractical in many cases.
Despite their destructive nature, wildfires are not inherently bad. Many ecosystems and species have evolved to coexist with and even depend on fire. Fires historically created diverse landscapes, where some areas burn intensely while others experience minimal damage, promoting habitat diversity. However, modern megafires, which burn entire regions at extreme intensities, disrupt these natural patterns and pose significant threats to wildlife.
Human actions are intensifying the severity of wildfires, placing many species at risk. Addressing this crisis requires changes at multiple levels. Policies that regulate land development, water usage, and fire management must be reassessed to mitigate fire risks. On an individual level, making environmentally conscious choices, such as reducing meat and dairy consumption, can help curb climate change and its role in worsening wildfires. Additionally, efforts should be made to stop subsidies that support industries contributing to climate change and fire risks. By implementing proactive measures, it is possible to reduce the impact of wildfires on both human and animal populations.
