
Alberta wildlife expert says animals well adapted to survive wildfires
WATERTON, Alta. — As wet, cool weather provided some relief to crews battling a wildfire in southwestern Alberta, a wildlife official said animals in and around Waterton Lakes National Park are well-adapted to survive the flames.
Parks Canada said Thursday that about six millimetres of rain fell over the Kenow fire overnight and it has not grown beyond an estimated 360 square kilometres.
But the agency cautioned the situation remains serious and it may once again become intense despite the rain. Some 500 people have been subject to evacuation orders in the area and Parks Canada said it could be weeks until the Waterton townsite re-opens.
Matt Besko, who is director of wildlife policy at Alberta Environment and Parks, said wildlife left in the park have evolved to be able to deal with natural wildfires.