While we as humans are experiencing the effects and taking precautions during the wildfires in Ontario and Quebec, Bird House Nature Company would like to remind everyone how important it is to have clean water and clean feeders available for the wild birds that transit through your area while the fires continue to affect wildlife. Now is the time to be extra vigilant in keeping your bird baths and feeders clean.
How are birds affected by wildfires?
Smoke from wildfires is extremely hazardous to birds, which have sensitive and specialized respiratory systems. According to a study by the U.S. Geological Survey, “Wildfire smoke has the potential to impact migratory birds at a geographic scale far beyond the bounds of the fires that generate it. At ground level, smoke concentrations can reach a level that impacts bird behavior across a geographic extent more than 27 times the area burned by wildfires.”
This can push birds even further away and affect how and where they fly to avoid irritation from smoke inhalation. Be on alert for new or rarely seen visitors in need of your hospitality.
Food Sources and Nesting Areas
Wildfires also eliminate food sources and nesting areas for many bird species, primarily those that rely on insects, seeds, and plants.
Birds have very high metabolisms and must eat frequently. This impact often lasts for months or even years after a large wildfire, causing bird population density and diversity to change dramatically in that area. This can have disastrous consequences for species already in decline due to other habitat and food losses.
Visit Bird House Nature Company as your resource for feeders, wild non GMO bird seed and bird baths to help you support your feathered visitors.
Here is a must link Downtown Orillia for upcoming events and planning your spring/summer visits to downtown Orillia. We look forward to your visit.