Expert: Fireworks impact environment, affect desert wildlife

The Fourth of July is a day for celebration and fireworks.

But, urban wildlife biologist Lois Balin said she worries about July 5th, and the aftermath of the firework displays.

That’s because she said firework debris can damage the desert wildlife ecosystem.

“Any kind of toxins or chemicals in the environment are going to be bad for wildlife,” Balin said. “

The desert is home to hundreds of different species, and these desert critters could interact with the trash.

“Animals may pick up the debris and take it underground where they’re living. Birds could pick it up and take it to their nest and it has a lot of toxic chemicals that could be really harmful to the birds,” Balin said.

Balin said the biggest danger for animals is eating any of the trash or powder left over.

“We see lots and lots of animal scat — their remnants — they leave behind, we often see trash, and that could be very harmful to them. It could kill them,” Balin said.

Balin’s advice for helping the environment is simple.

“If you’re in an area you know there are desert animals, it’s probably best to do it somewhere else. Or, just go to the major venues,” Balin said.