Florida’s 92 Wildfires Are Posing Problems for Wildlife Rehabilitators: ‘No Hotel Is Going to Put Up Me and 75 Squirrels’

In recent weeks, Florida has been grappling with a growing number of wildfires. As of the end of April, there are 92 active fires burning across the state, with nearly 2,000 reported since January 2026. This alarming situation has resulted in over 15,000 acres of land scorched and is significantly disrupting the local wildlife ecosystem.

The Florida Forest Service, part of the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, revealed that the fires have predominantly taken hold in the north-central region of the state. Drought conditions exacerbating the wildfire threat have forced numerous animal species out of their natural habitats and into residential areas as they search for food, water, and shelter. This movement leads to an urgent need for residents to adapt to new interactions with wildlife.

Becky Goodman, who works with Secret Squirrel Wildlife Rehabilitation, explains the broader implications of these displacements. “There will be wildlife-on-wildlife conflict,” she said, warning of the increased likelihood of competition among animals, particularly in areas already home to various species. This situation increases the potential for dangerous encounters between displaced wildlife and local residents, as animals compete for limited resources.

Wildlife shelters and rehabilitation centres face a considerable strain due to the influx of animals needing care following wildfire-related injuries such as smoke inhalation or burns. Goodman described the challenges of relocating wildlife, especially during widespread evacuations caused by fires, hurricanes, or flooding. “It’s not like dogs and cats. No hotel is going to put me and 75 squirrels up,” she stated, highlighting the specialised nature of wildlife rehabilitation and the unique difficulties faced by those in the profession.

The current crisis demands that licensed wildlife rehabilitators take in more animals than usual. Goodman reported that many wildlife teams across different counties are rallying to address the growing number of animals arriving with injuries linked to the fires. The continuous demand means that wildlife rehabbers rarely get a moment’s reprieve, as they constantly prepare for incoming burn victims and animals suffering from smoke inhalation.

In areas that seem less affected by the wildfires, the situation is paradoxically worse, with an unexpected surge in displaced wildlife. The arrival of these animals stresses not only rehabilitators but local communities as well. As wild animals seek refuge in urban settings, the balance between human residences and wildlife habitats is increasingly strained.

To mitigate potential conflicts and assist these animals, experts advise residents not to intervene directly with displaced wildlife. Instead, they recommend that people leave shallow bowls of water and small servings of food like raw vegetables or pet kibble in safe outdoor spaces. Such measures can help ease the dire plight of animals forced into unfamiliar environments.

For those who encounter injured or struggling wildlife, the appropriate course of action is to contact professionals or local wildlife rehabilitation groups. Proper handling and care are vital for ensuring the safety of both the animals and residents.

As Florida continues to combat these wildfires, the interaction between humans and wildlife is likely to remain strained. The increase in displaced animals demands a cooperative approach, focusing on community awareness and support for local wildlife rehabilitation efforts. By establishing protocols and encouraging compassion during this challenging time, residents can play a crucial role in safeguarding both the wild animals and their neighbourhoods.