9 Animals That Aren’t Scared of Fire

Brown Bears

Brown bears' fire feelings are poorly studied, although online forums are plenty with anecdotes. Many individuals say brown bears have approached their camp fires, drawn by the fragrance of cooking.

Black Bears

Many black bears are inherently wary of humans and will avoid us. People think campfires prevent bears, but humans do. If food is involved, many black bears will overcome their fire fears.

Cats

Some fires are bigger. No one claims cats would run into infernos, but many have no fear of candle flames. Many cat owners have recorded videos of their kitties looking at candles. 

Wolves

Hikers are told to construct a campfire to deter wolves, but this is not foolproof. Wolves are curious and wary of campfires, according to behavioral studies. Carefully approaching, they circle downwind to survey the situation. 

Firehawks

Aboriginal peoples call birds that purposefully set fire to locate food "firehawks." At least three raptors, notably the Black Kite (Milvus migrans), carry burning sticks in their beaks or talons. 

Raccoons

Raccoons are smart and resourceful. They know humans have lots of food and are drawn to human settlements, whether they're suburban homes or forest camps. Human light and noise are familiar to many.

Snakes

Fire is not the greatest strategy to keep snakes away from your camp. Cold-blooded snakes require warm places to warm up. Snakes often bask in campfire heat. Wildfire-caught snakes will flee immediately. 

Fire Beetles

Some bugs like fire! They flock to forest fires to lay their eggs on burned trees and soil. Some go almost 50 miles to get to the fire. They've even crawled into firefighters' suits and bit them! Pyrophilic insects seek fires.

Smoke Flies

When other animals flee, certain fly species head to forest fires. Microsania flies, which love smoke, form mating swarms above fire plumes. They can navigate active fires with extraordinary senses.