Are Any Animals Responsible for Spreading Wildfires?

Bushfires are common in Australia’s tropical savannas. Most are started when lightning or humans ignite bone-dry grasslands, scorching thousands of square miles each year. It’s part of the natural order. But the Aboriginal peoples who are indigenous to the country’s Northern Territory will tell you that there's another way these fires spread. They say that “firehawks” -- specifically the black kite, the whistling kite, and the brown falcon -- routinely pick up burning sticks and drop them in new locations, then wait for prey to flee right towards the hungry, waiting birds.

Ready, aim, fire:

• Anecdotes about the so-called "firehawks" were published in the Journal of Ethnobiology in 2018, but definitive proof that birds of prey purposely spread bushfires has yet to be established. Scientifically verified or not, National Geographic researcher Mark Bonta says that Aboriginal Australians have known about the phenomenon "for probably 40,000 years or more.”
• In the 1964 book I, the Aboriginal, Waipuldanya Phillip Roberts wrote: “I have seen a hawk pick up a smoldering stick in its claws and drop it in a fresh patch of dry grass half a mile away, then wait with its mates for the mad exodus of scorched and frightened rodents and reptiles.”
• Australian ornithologist Bob Gosford says that the burning sticks are “not much bigger than your finger,” and that the raptors’ attempt at arson “is not always successful, but sometimes it results in ignition.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Can animals actually start wildfires?

Yes, animals can inadvertently start wildfires. Instances have been recorded where birds, such as hawks or eagles, have collided with power lines, causing sparks that ignite dry vegetation below. However, such events are rare and animals are not commonly responsible for starting wildfires compared to human activities like unattended campfires or discarded cigarettes.

Are there any specific animals known for spreading wildfires?

There are no animals that intentionally spread wildfires. While some birds of prey have been observed picking up burning sticks and dropping them to flush out prey, these are isolated incidents and not a widespread behavior. Most wildfire spread is due to wind, heat, and the availability of dry fuel rather than animal actions.

How do wildfires affect animal behavior?

Wildfires can have a significant impact on animal behavior. Animals may flee to escape the flames, which can lead to the temporary displacement and migration of wildlife. Some species are adept at surviving fires by burrowing underground or seeking refuge in water. Post-fire, animals often return to their habitats or adapt to new environments.

What role do animals play in the ecosystem after a wildfire?

After a wildfire, animals play a crucial role in the recovery of the ecosystem. Herbivores help disperse seeds and promote new plant growth, while predators keep herbivore populations in check to prevent overgrazing. Scavengers aid in the decomposition of dead matter, recycling nutrients back into the soil, which is vital for ecosystem regeneration.

Do any animals benefit from wildfires?

Some animals do benefit from wildfires. Fire can create a mosaic of habitats that are beneficial for a variety of species. For example, certain birds, such as woodpeckers, thrive in post-burn environments where they can find abundant insects and nesting opportunities in dead trees. Additionally, new growth after a fire can provide fresh forage for herbivores.

What measures are taken to protect wildlife during wildfires?

During wildfires, efforts are made to protect wildlife by controlling the spread of the fire and preserving critical habitats. Firefighters may create firebreaks to contain the blaze. Rescue organizations often help injured animals, and conservationists work on post-fire habitat restoration. However, the primary strategy is to prevent fires from starting through education and regulation.