Fireworks have long-lasting effects on wild birds and animals

[Emily]

https://phys.org/news/2022-11-fireworks-long-lasting-effects-wild-birds.html
November 25, 2022
Fireworks have long-lasting effects on wild birds
by Max Planck Society

Scientists at the Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior in Konstanz, Germany, and the Netherlands Institute of Ecology GPS tracked Arctic migratory geese in Germany, Denmark, and the Netherlands over the New Year period to examine the long-term impact of fireworks. Their study appears in Conservation Letters.

Movement data from 347 geese showed that on New Year's Eve, birds suddenly leave their sleeping sites and fly to new areas further away from human settlements. The disturbed birds rested two hours less and flew further, sometimes up to 500 kilometers non-stop, than they did on nights without fireworks. The unusual behaviors didn't end with the celebrations. For all studied days after the New Year, geese spent more time foraging and never returned to their original sleeping sites...

 

[Emily]

https://phys.org/news/2022-11-fireworks-evidence-distress-animals-case.html
November 2, 2022

Fireworks: Growing evidence they distress animals builds case to restrict use

by Claudia Wascher, The Conversation
The crackle, fizz and bang of fireworks exploding overhead in a shower of intense colors is considered the highlight of many festivals and celebrations. But have you ever taken a moment to imagine how your local wildlife feels about it?

Fear, including the fear of loud noises, is deeply rooted in the evolutionary history of all animals. Shying away from dangerous situations increases survival. For example, hiding away from loud thunderstorms and running away from the noise of falling rocks might save an animal's life.

But there is nowhere to hide from fireworks. What must it be like for the wild animals that delight us on walks and picnics to be confronted with such an inescapable barrage of sound?...