The Forest That Needs Fire

NPS / Jim Peaco

Quick Facts

Location:

Mammoth to Tower Road

Amenities

1 listed

Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits

Fires are a natural part of Yellowstone’s ecosystem. Wildfires do not significantly affect the abundance of most wildlife species in Yellowstone.

Rodents probably had the highest fire-related mortality of any mammals. Although many could escape the fires in burrows, others died of suffocation as the fires came through. They also were more exposed to predators because they temporarily lost the cover of grasses and other plants. But, because of their capacity to have multiple litters with many young per year, rodents quickly repopulated burned areas.