Record N.B. wildfires alter forest ecosystems, creating winners and losers among birds

Wildfires are wreaking havoc on New Brunswick’s forests, but researchers are finding that the aftermath is reshaping bird habitats in unexpected ways. According to Joe Nocera, a professor at the University of New Brunswick, wildfires create winners and losers among bird species. Woodpeckers, in particular, are thriving in burned areas where standing deadwood attracts wood-boring insects for them to feast on.

Amy-Lee Kouwenberg, an associate director at Birds Canada, explains that wildfires, while destructive, are a natural part of forest ecosystems. They clear out underbrush and create habitats that support a wider range of species, ultimately boosting biodiversity. Woodpeckers play a crucial role in this ecosystem, creating tree cavities that serve as nesting sites for other birds like chickadees, bluebirds, and nuthatches.

One species that stands out is the black-backed woodpecker, known for thriving in burned forests. Despite historically low populations, this bird is not considered at risk due to its preference for post-fire environments. However, not all birds benefit from wildfires. Species like the Canada warbler, wood thrush, and Bicknell’s thrush, which rely on dense, mature forests, are particularly vulnerable to habitat loss.

Prescribed burning, the practice of setting controlled fires, is seen as a mitigating measure to reduce the risk of wildfires. Karen Hodges, a conservation ecologist, emphasizes the importance of returning wildfire activity to a more natural level to prevent the rapid spread of fires. This year, Canada has recorded 23 prescribed fires, burning almost 1,800 hectares.

The Acadian forest, historically resistant to fires, is now facing more destructive wildfires that burn both the ground level and canopy. Nocera notes that these fires make it harder for forests to regenerate, impacting the overall ecosystem. According to the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre, New Brunswick has seen a dramatic increase in wildfires this year, with over 300 recorded fires burning more than 2,500 hectares.

While wildfires pose challenges for some bird species, they also create new opportunities for others. By understanding the complex interplay between wildfires and bird habitats, researchers hope to find ways to preserve biodiversity and support ecosystem resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.