The Unlikely Heroes of the N.W.T.’s Wildfire Zones

The number of collisions between vehicles and bison in the Northwest Territories (N.W.T.) has been declining. From 2021 to 2025, there were 60 reported incidents resulting in at least 76 deaths. However, as of this year’s mid-point, that number has dropped dramatically – just one collision so far.

Terry Armstrong, a bison ecologist with the N.W.T.’s Department of Environment and Climate Change (ECC), attributes this shift to wildfires. “The immediate effect of fire is that bison change where they’re spending their time,” he explains. The newly burnt areas provide a haven for these massive creatures, which can start to return even while the area is still smoldering.

This trend has significant implications for the N.W.T.’s bison population, currently estimated at several thousand individuals. As a threatened species both territorially and nationally, any development that promotes their well-being is welcome news. However, it’s essential to consider the complexities of this situation – why have wildfires become a safe haven for these animals?

The N.W.T.’s bison population has been struggling in recent years due to habitat loss, fragmentation, and disease transmission between domestic and wild populations. Wood bison are listed as threatened. The fact that wildfires may be contributing to their recovery raises questions about the role of environmental disturbances in shaping the behavior and habitats of these iconic animals.

Armstrong’s observations highlight the importance of understanding animal behavior during different seasons. August into September is rutting season, a time when aggressive behavior from bison on the road increases. This is not just a matter of caution; it’s a stark reminder that humans are sharing the roads with creatures that can weigh over 2,000 pounds and are driven by instinct rather than reason.

As we head into what Armstrong describes as “the more difficult time of the year,” drivers in the N.W.T. would do well to take heed of his warnings. Drive slowly, give these animals space, and avoid actions that might provoke them – such as honking at them.

Beyond the practical advice lies a broader conversation about coexisting with wildlife in an era of climate change. As wildfires become more frequent and widespread, what does this mean for the bison population? Will they continue to adapt to the changing landscape, or will other factors begin to exert pressure on their numbers?

The story of the N.W.T.’s bison population is one of resilience, but also of vulnerability. As we navigate the complexities of conservation and wildlife management in a rapidly shifting world, it’s essential that we listen to the lessons being taught by these remarkable creatures – and heed the warning signs of an increasingly fragile ecosystem.

The underlying dynamics at play are far more profound than any single statistic can capture. It’s time to look beyond the trend lines and consider the deeper implications of this phenomenon for our understanding of wildlife behavior, habitat conservation, and the delicate balance between humans and nature in the N.W.T.’s wildfire zones.