Wildfire Smoke Hides Birds in New York

Wildfire smoke from Canadian blazes significantly impacted bird observation in New York, according to a new University at Buffalo study. Researchers found that smoke-laden air led to a reduced likelihood of spotting dozens of bird species across the state during breeding seasons between 2021 and 2023.

Analyzing nearly 99,000 birdwatching checklists from Cornell's eBird database, the study correlated fine particulate pollution (PM2.5) with bird visibility. Forty of the 84 species examined were less frequently observed as smoke increased, particularly migratory forest songbirds like warblers and thrushes.

Researchers suggest that smoky conditions may cause birds to become less active or vocal, and remain hidden within foliage. While fewer sightings were noted, the study emphasizes this does not definitively indicate a decline in bird populations. Fifteen species were actually observed more frequently, and 29 showed no significant change.

These findings are crucial for wildlife monitoring, especially as climate change fuels more intense wildfires. Accounting for air quality impacts on bird detection can help scientists differentiate temporary behavioral changes from long-term population trends, improving the accuracy of biodiversity tracking.