How does wildfire smoke affect birds?

As summer temperatures rise and wildfires rage in forests around the world, nature enthusiasts and backyard birders might wonder how these tragedies — and the resulting poor air quality — could affect the birds they admire. Here’s what you should know about how smoke impacts birds, and what steps you can take to help wildlife during those difficult times.

How Does Wildfire Smoke Affect Birds?

Smoke inhalation isn’t good for anyone. Air polluted by smoke contains hazards such as particulate matter, dangerous gases, and compounds linked to serious health concerns. Birds extract more oxygen from the air than humans do when they breathe, which leaves them vulnerable to increased air pollution. In addition, we go inside when the air becomes unhealthy. Wild birds don’t have that option.

While the subject of wildfire smoke impacting birds hasn’t been the focus of many studies, experts do know that smoke inhalation can make birds sick. “Birds have complex respiratory systems, more complex than those of humans, so they’re probably more strongly affected by smoke than we are,” Birds & Blooms‘ birding expert Kenn Kaufman says. “They absorb air pollutants readily into their systems. Early studies have shown that wild birds subjected to repeated episodes of heavy smoke are likely to have lower body weight and worse overall condition than normal. They may suffer long-term lung damage.”

Dr. Olivia Sanderfoot, research scientist and project leader with the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, studies the effects of smoke on wild bird populations. She adds, “Although research is limited, we know smoke alters bird behavior. In general, songbirds are less active when it’s smoky, and they are less likely to vocalize.” Some species, she says, become less visible when smoke is present, while some, such as tufted titmice and cedar waxwings, are more frequently observed.

Kenn also says that periods of high smoke decrease birds’ overall activity. “During the breeding season, that means less defense of their nesting territories, and probably less food provided for their young,” he adds.

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Is There Anything I Can Do to Help Birds?

On this, science doesn’t offer a perfect answer. Logic would suggest that as long as it’s safe for a person to do so — and they take necessary precautions, such as face coverings, limiting time spent outdoors, and remaining inside if pollution is too severe — keeping feeders and bird baths filled can help birds during times of need.

That’s Kenn’s suggestion: “During periods of bad air quality, we can help backyard birds by providing fresh, clean water and replacing it frequently. Keeping feeders filled is also helpful, so the birds don’t have to be as active in searching for food.”

Olivia agrees that filling feeders and bird baths is a good way to support birds. Too, she mentions that keeping birds safe during times of high smoke means adhering to best birding practices. “Gardening for birds, doing your part to help prevent bird-glass collisions, and keeping your cats indoors are some of the best things you can do to help our feathered friends,” she says. “By taking bird-friendly action and advocating for birds and the places they need year-round, birds will stand a better chance as we navigate a smokier future.”

To help scientists better understand the effects of smoke on birds, consider joining Project Feederwatch or sending your observations to eBird. To contribute to Olivia’s research, you can fill out her survey if you’ve observed unusual, smoke-related bird behavior.