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I-95 Wildlife expert Jen the Zookeeper says we're not the only ones impacted by the Canadian wildfires. There are consequences for our fury and wooded friends as well, here is what she had to say...

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Breaking News from the Canadian Forest: "We're Going South."

Canadian wildlife has reportedly activated its annual "Operation: Find Air That Doesn't Taste Like Campfire."

Moose have been spotted squinting at the horizon, wondering why the sun is orange at noon. Black bears are filing formal complaints that their favorite berry patches now come with a complimentary side of smoke. Beavers are frantically building dams while muttering, "This isn't exactly what we meant by fire prevention."

Meanwhile, birds have become Canada's unofficial air-quality inspectors, rerouting migration flights with GPS directions that simply read: "Anywhere but here." Some have even made surprise appearances in neighboring U.S. states, leaving local birds asking, "Uh... are you guys okay?"

Scientists explain that wildfire smoke can reduce visibility, irritate animals' eyes and lungs, make it harder to find food, and force wildlife to abandon nests, dens, and territories in search of safer habitat. While many species are remarkably adaptable, increasingly frequent and intense wildfires make survival much more challenging.

So if a Canadian goose lands in your backyard looking slightly annoyed, give it some space. It's probably just trying to enjoy a breath of fresh air—and maybe wondering why humans haven't figured out how to stop setting the world's largest smoke machine to "high."

More on Jen the Zookeeper 

JTZ

Jen has spent more than 30 years immersed in the fields of animal care, conservation, and science education. As the former Director of Animal Care for the New Canaan Nature Center in Connecticut, she oversaw the care of native mammals, reptiles, and birds of prey while educating the public about the important roles these wild neighbors play in our ecosystem. Her experience also includes time with both the Bronx Zoo and the Los Angeles Zoo, where she focused on the care of African and Asian wildlife and helped teach visitors about the delicate balance between humans and natural habitats.

Later, while working at a wildlife sanctuary in Half Moon Bay, California, Jen played a key role in training and handling nearly 50 exotic species. She also developed educational programs for at-risk and foster youth, helping historically underserved kids build trust, confidence, and healing connections with the non-releasable animals at the sanctuary.

In addition to her extensive wildlife work, Jen has experience in horse and dog training, animal control, veterinary care, and all things conservation education. Today, she owns and operates Jen Kotkin Pet Care, where she provides personalized care, exercise, and enrichment for dogs, cats, horses, birds, and more.