Wildfires and drought challenge wildlife across Colorado, CPW scientists monitor habitat loss and animal movement

DATE: Aug. 11, 2026

DENVER — Drought and wildfires are creating challenges for wildlife and the habitats they depend on. As landscapes recover from fire and water sources are scarce, Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) is closely monitoring habitat conditions, as many wildlife species face increased stress to search for food, water and shelter.

Wildfires can rapidly alter ecosystems by removing vegetation that provides food and cover for wildlife. While ecosystems are adapted to periodic fire and will recover over time, the initial impact of large wildfires may reduce habitat quality, displace animals and increase competition for limited resources. Species that are unable to relocate quickly or that rely on specialized habitats may be especially vulnerable this summer.

Drought compounds these challenges by reducing water availability, limiting plant growth, and affecting the insects, fish and other food sources that wildlife need to survive. Lower stream flows, shrinking wetlands and dry landscapes can impact a wide range of species from birds to mammals to amphibians and reptiles. 

Limited moisture also reduces the annual growth of important shrubs used by bears, elk, moose, pronghorn and mule deer. Plant growth directly affects the food available to wild animals, and drought reduces the number of animals the habitat can support. 

How You Can Help Wildlife
Community members can help wildlife by respecting habitat and giving animals space, which helps build community support and responsible behavior towards wildlife.

• Give wildlife extra space and respect area closures.
• Do not feed wildlife; let them find natural food sources.  
• Properly dispose of trash to deter wildlife from entering residential areas.
• Keep dogs on a leash, especially near wetlands and riparian areas.
• Report sick or stressed wildlife to a local CPW Office.
• If you see a poaching incident, report it to Operation Game Thief by emailing [email protected] or calling 1-877-COLO-OGT. 
• Volunteer for habitat improvement projects at state parks and state wildlife areas.

As smaller streams dry up, wildlife may walk along roads or gather around livestock tanks. Keep a safe distance, avoid feeding or approaching wild animals, and report problematic interactions to CPW-trained wildlife officers to help reduce conflicts and protect both wildlife and communities. 

CPW is seeing a significant increase in bear activity this summer as bears migrate into neighborhoods and cities in search of human trash. As of Aug. 7, CPW received 5,197 reports of bear sightings and incidents, an increase from 2,853 reports in 2025 over the same time period. Wildlife officers are frequently called to help with bears because people have left trash outside, or bears have entered open garages and unlocked cars. These calls can be prevented with extra diligence by humans to secure trash and strong-smelling items that can attract bears. CPW will issue a press release featuring bear incident data for 2026. For more bear educational resources, visit bearwise.org.

“Summer wildfires and drought test every creature. Protecting their habitat today gives wildlife hope for future generations,” said CPW Habitat Conservation Supervisor Casey Cooley. “This summer in particular, we ask people to be mindful that wildlife are having to work harder to find food and water. The best thing we can do to support them is to keep them wild and not feed or disturb them. Feeding wildlife can increase the chances of human-wildlife conflicts or make them sick and dehydrated.”

Wildlife Habitat Improvement Projects

CPW’s wildlife management decisions are grounded in the best available science and the expertise of agency biologists, researchers, veterinarians and wildlife managers. Staff collect and analyze data through population surveys, GPS-collar studies, genetic sampling, disease surveillance, habitat assessments and long-term monitoring programs. 

By adjusting hunting and fishing season structures and license quotas in areas affected by wildfire damage, closing boating ramps during extreme drought conditions, and establishing voluntary and mandatory fishing closures, CPW can partner with the public to sustain healthy habitats and wildlife populations.

Once wildfires pass through a landscape, CPW is on the ground helping restore land and habitat so wildlife can return to burned areas and thrive for future generations. Below are examples of habitat conservation projects that CPW is actively working on to support wildlife resilience and biodiversity. 

Even during difficult drought conditions, habitat improvement efforts, responsible recreation and public lands stewardship can help Colorado’s wildlife remain resilient.

For more information about wildlife conservation and living with wildlife, visit https://cpw.state.co.us/living-wildlife.

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