The California gnatcatcher is a little bird with a big problem. Its habitat has been reduced 80 percent by people that are building homes and businesses in coastal southern California. The scientists in this study wanted to know how prescribed fires, rather than wildland fires, affect the California gnatcatcher and its habitat. Note: In earlier Natural Inquirer articles like this one, the Discussion section is called “Implications.” Topics: Fire, Wildlife, Birds, California Gnatcatcher, Coastal Habitat, Fire, Habitat, Human Impacts.