Birds are in Danger from Wildfire Smoke in Golden State

California’s catastrophic wildfires are putting birds and their habitats in danger. Researchers say the biggest fire-related risk for birds is smoke because of their sensitive respiratory systems. Research shows bird activity is significantly reduced after smoke events. Birds that were near or in the wildfires’ smoke even had decreases in body mass, which researchers believe is likely from the smoke preventing them from scavenging or hunting. Studies have also shown that smoke can delay or disrupt migration patterns. Thousands of birds are treated each year at the Bird Rescue Center of Sonoma County for smoke inhalation.