Oregon Wildlife Foundation offers tips on how you can help wildlife during wildfires

(Update: Adding video)

SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ_ Oregon's wildlife has evolved alongside fire, with many species adapted to periodic burns. However, the increasing intensity and frequency of wildfires, influenced by climate change, are creating new challenges for both animals and ecosystems.

The Oregon Wildlife Foundation said Monday it would like to remind the public that wildfire season is here, and multiple effects to wildlife and wilderness come with it. 

Here's their news release, in full:

Immediate and Long-Term Effects

Wildfires cause immediate habitat loss and alter ecosystem structures. While some species thrive in post-fire environments, others face significant challenges. For instance, species dependent on mature forests, like the Northern Spotted Owl, may experience population declines due to the destruction of their habitat.

In the aftermath, wildlife often seeks refuge in urban areas, increasing human-wildlife interactions. As natural resources are depleted, the search for food and water drives this behavior.

Aquatic Ecosystems

Wildfires also impact aquatic habitats. Runoff from burned areas can increase water murkiness and alter water chemistry, making environments uninhabitable for fish and other aquatic organisms. This can lead to fish die-offs and disrupt the balance of aquatic ecosystems.

Adaptations and Resilience

Some species are better equipped to handle the changes brought about by wildfires. For example, certain birds and mammals benefit from the new growth in young forests post-fire. Additionally, species like the pyrophilous beetle are adapted to thrive in burned areas, utilizing the resources available in the aftermath.

How You Can Help

If you encounter wildlife displaced by fire, it's important to:

• Avoid feeding them, as this can lead to dependency and potential conflicts.
• Provide fresh water away from your home to prevent attracting multiple animals.
• Drop gates and fences temporarily so wildlife can move more freely.
• To report sick or dead wildlife, call your local ODFW office or the Wildlife Health Lab toll-free number (866-968-2600). You can also contact your local wildlife rehabilitation center. For a list of Oregon Wildlife Rehabilitation Centers, visit the link ODFW Wildlife Rehabilitation. 

Supporting organizations dedicated to habitat restoration and wildlife conservation can also aid in the recovery of affected species. OWF coordinates its restoration efforts with the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife (ODFW) and land managers as needed.

While wildfires are a natural part of Oregon's ecosystem, the changing climate alters their frequency and intensity, posing new challenges for wildlife. Understanding these impacts and taking proactive measures can help mitigate the effects on Oregon's diverse species.

For more information, visit our post about reporting injured animals Who do I contact if I encounter injured or orphaned wildlife? — Oregon Wildlife Foundation

Oregon Wildlife Foundation

Oregon Wildlife Foundation is an apolitical operating charitable foundation dedicated to increasing private and public funding support for wildlife conservation projects in Oregon. Since 1981, OWF has directed tens of millions of dollars in private and public support to a broad range of projects throughout Oregon. For more information, visit www.myowf.org.