Wildfires in Quito devastate wildlife and livestock, impacting ecosystems.

The wildfires that have devastated areas around Quito in recent days have left a tragic toll, with the death of over 30,000 chickens and 20 cows, in addition to an ecological impact that could take centuries to recover. The emergencies have concentrated in areas such as Chilibulo, Nayón, and Pifo, where the flames have ravaged local fauna and flora, generating concern not only for the rural economy but also for the environmental health of the region. The head of the Natural Heritage Unit of the Environment Secretariat, Sebastián Pillajo, has explained that the regeneration of the damaged ecosystems will be an extremely prolonged process. According to his statement, "one centimeter of organic matter in the soil takes 100 years to regenerate." This fact reveals the magnitude of the damage, where each fire not only destroys vegetation but also eliminates thousands of years of natural work. The loss of these resources is a deep wound in the environment that sustains so many species, both wild and domestic. Local wildlife has been one of the main victims of this catastrophe. High levels of mortality have been recorded among deer, opossums, and rabbits, as well as a notable decrease in birds such as quilicos and hummingbirds. The Quito Fire Department (CBQ) has observed a forced migration of animals like wolves, seeking refuge from the advancing flames. These fires not only destroy their habitat but also wipe out their nests and burrows, which are crucial for their survival. The impact has extended to livestock, with the rescue of domestic animals trapped in the flames, including cattle and sheep. Pillajo has indicated that these losses are significant for rural communities that depend on these animals not only for their livelihood but also for the stability of their productive ecosystems. Inaction could result in an economic collapse for many of these households. With clouds of smoke and ash covering the north of Quito and the Tumbaco valley, authorities have intensified their efforts to combat the fires. Although the fires in Nayón and Chilibulo have been brought under control, the situation remains critical and dangerous. Firefighting teams continue to work hard on cooling and monitoring hot spots, which can reach extreme temperatures. In Itulcachi, the situation is even more severe, with the death of 32,000 chickens and the loss of 20 cows due to smoke inhalation. The effects on human health are equally concerning, with six people requiring medical attention for respiratory complications. Exposure to smoke and extreme temperatures has even affected firefighters, who have had to face adverse conditions in their mission to control the fire. Climate projections show no signs of relief, as high temperatures and strong winds are expected to continue affecting the country until September 11. This only increases the urgency for an effective response and the implementation of preventive measures to avoid future disasters. In response to the magnitude of the crisis, the Environment Secretariat and the Ministry of Environment have formulated an ecological restoration plan, which will be implemented as soon as weather conditions allow. This plan includes reforestation of the devastated areas and the use of drones to plant seeds of native plants, which will not only help restore the ecosystem but also allow wildlife to recover naturally. The current situation has highlighted the vulnerability of Quito, which is situated in a dry forest ecosystem. Authorities have emphasized the need to protect the natural heritage of the capital, as its ecological well-being is fundamental to the health and quality of life of its inhabitants. The crisis also underscores the importance of community education on wildfire prevention and environmental care. Without active collaboration between authorities, communities, and citizens, efforts to restore these damaged ecosystems could be compromised, affecting not only the natural environment but also the economy and health of the population.