Animal Rescue Stories

Wildlife Conservation And Development- A delicate balance

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 22:56:55 GMT

Guest Author Kaili Falk shares her work in mountain lion conservation

and the lessons she has learned.

Despite their elusive nature and general avoidance of humans, the stories that mountain lions tell have a far greater impact on us than you may think. Understanding their behavior can give researchers insights into more complex social issues like the ongoing battle over development of relatively undisturbed areas.

My first capture: pictured here is 130M- a local male we needed to capture and recollar. He is safe and sound- peacefully sleeping as we take measurements and collect metrics to ensure his health. Under my hand is his GPS collar which will be used to collect movement data.

For the final two years of my undergraduate experience at UC Santa Cruz, I was involved in the Santa Cruz Puma Project– an organization that studies how human development and urbanization impacts habitat, genetic flow, and population health for pumas in the Santa Cruz Mountains. To obtain data for this research, we capture and collar pumas, taking measurements, conducting general health assessments, and fitting them with GPS collars. Since having the opportunity to participate in these (ethical) captures, I have been known as the“Mountain Lion Catcher” to my friends and family- a title that sounds exciting to some, completely and utterly undesirable to others, and absolutely terrifies my family.

To me, being the girl that researches mountain lions is much more than just a title or accolade. Since I’ve spent so much time studying their movement and behavioral patterns, I’ve gained such a unique insight not only into their ecology, but also a portal into wildlife for all species threatened by urbanization.

I feel an obligation to share what I know– their story– and how they can shape future conservation efforts.

The collaring of an adult female in the hills above the Silicon Valley.

I completed a senior thesis, in collaboration with the Santa Cruz Puma Project, that collected the average measurements of pumas (their morphology), and their movement data, to determine how urbanization is impacting their habitats. Mountain lions are territorial carnivores and most develop home ranges. My research used mountain lion data from 2008 to 2025, a sample size 163 pumas. I found that the average home range for a female was 44 km² and the average home range for a male was 104 km²- a healthy amount of land for one mountain lion.

After determining the average home range size, I assessed how these ranges changed when compared against variables like distance to urban edge, and levels of housing density. I concluded that pumas in areas with lower housing densities had larger home ranges (This data is depicted in Figure 2). Additionally, pumas further from the urban edge also tended to have larger home ranges (Figure 3). Housing density and urban edge are both anthropogenic disturbances— human caused alterations to the landscape. These results highlight that pumas exposed to anthropogenic disturbances have smaller home range sizes, potentially affecting puma population densities in human dominated areas. This can also affect pumas’ ability to regulate prey populations as an apex predator. The biggest takeaway from my research is that urbanization and human activity restrict space use of pumas in areas closer to human development.

Figure 1: Regression chart highlighting how pumas in areas with lower housing density had larger home ranges.

Figure 2: Regression chart from the results of my research. Pumas farther from the urban edge tended to have larger home range

Urbanization, the development of infrastructure like roads, highways, and houses, is inevitable in our society. Here in California and all across the United States, we are faced with an increasing need for housing. To tackle housing affordability, many are in favor of increased development in California. In 2023, Governor Gavin Newsom announced that by 2030, local governments must plan to have 2.5 million new homes built, 1 million of which must be affordable housing (1). This development is likely to contribute to the increase in Wildland-Urban Interfaces (WUIs), where human development meets wild habitat (2). Groups in support of Newsom’s development policy for abundant housing make up the YIMBY movement (Yes in My Backyard).

As crucial housing developments expand WUIs, knowing and being attuned to how wildlife interacts with urban and developing spaces is more important than ever before. This is especially important for decreasing human wildlife interactions, increasing sustainable co-existence, decreasing habitat fragmentation, and growing healthier relationships with “scary” wildlife. One way that researchers translate movement data into real world change is through the construction of highway corridors. Often in the form of a tunnel or underpass, these pieces of infrastructure prevent wildlife mortality from car collisions but most importantly encourage connectivity in areas impacted by habitat fragmentation (3,4). As I mentioned earlier, I determined that the average home range size for a male mountain lion was 104 km²- roughly the same area as Paris, France. Since mountain lions require such a large range for habitat, the importance of preserving undisturbed open spaces becomes increasingly critical as urbanization continues (5). “Landscape ecology” is an emerging concept in conservation that refers to understanding how varying habitats affect biodiversity and ecological processes. Incorporating concepts of landscape ecology into future development can encourage sustainable co-existence with large carnivores like mountain lions. Ensuring mountain lions have sufficient habitat and connectivity would likely decrease human-wildlife conflict.

Taking morphometric measurements of this female’s canine teeth.

The issue of development- affordable or not– is no stranger to us in Santa Barbara. An issue near and dear to my heart is the battle against development along the Gaviota coast where the county has approved construction for a 6,500 sq ft estate at Naples. As a young girl- my fascination and passion for the natural environment was constantly nourished by this coast, hiking through the creeks of El Capitan and exploring the diverse ecosystems of West Goleta (located on the unceded lands of the Chumash people).

You might be wondering how mountain lions fit into this complex issue. While having valuable cultural heritage as well as personal sentimental value I’ve also been reflecting on the value of this land for the conservation of large mammals like mountain lions. There is no doubt that we need affordable housing, but how can we manage this in a way that is also beneficial for conservation efforts, especially for animals that need large areas for their survival? My research suggests that as housing density increases in mountain lion habitats, their home range will decrease. My proposed solution to this problem is to protect established open spaces, encourage sustainable development, and educate the public on mountain lion awareness. Protected spaces promote connectivity, allowing for migration between different mountain populations. Other solutions include vertical expansion, and highway wildlife corridors, like the one being constructed in Gaviota under the 101. These corridors prove to be helpful to mountain lions and other wildlife cross highways and expand their territory (6).

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Lastly, the odds of a mountain lion interaction are rare- I have gone into their dens and actively looked for them to no avail. They do NOT want to come into contact with humans. With that being said, I will leave you with a friendly reminder that should you come into contact with a mountain lion, make yourself as large as you can, make lots of noise, fight back, and throw sticks and rocks (do not bend over or make yourself small). Mountain lions are most active at dusk and dawn, as well as through the night. If you live in a more rural or mountainous neighborhood, bring your pets inside and secure livestock at night. Preventing conflict can also encourage mountain lion conservation since it prevents them from unnecessary culling.

As their habitats decrease because of our impacts, conservationists are called to take action to encourage the conservation of species like mountain lions, whose habitat is at risk of shrinking. Balancing scientific research and applicable conservation efforts with human development is our chance to mitigate the potential impacts of urbanization on our natural landscape. Mountain lions are not our enemy, rather, they are our neighbors.

Works Cited:

(1) https://www.gov.ca.gov/2023/05/19/governor-newsom-announces-567-million-for-new-affordable-housing/

(2) https://bpb-us-e1.wpmucdn.com/sites.ucsc.edu/dist/0/1412/files/2024/09/Greenberg_2024_Proceedings-of-the-National-Academy-of-Sciences_Relational-geographies-of-urban-unsustainability-The-entanglement-of-Californias-housing-crisis-with-WUI-growth-and-climate-change.pdf

(3) https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0006320717308029

(4) https://conbio.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/j.1523-1739.2010.01450.x

(5) https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0169204602000051

(6) https://conbio.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/j.1523-1739.2010.01450.x

Kaili Falk is a recent alumni of UC Santa Cruz, with a degree in Environmental Studies. Her research combines GPS tracking and spatial analysis to understand how pumas use landscapes and interact with urban environments. She aims to support coexistence between mountain lions and human communities through science-based conservation.

Creating The Wild 5 Challenge

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 18:30:34 GMT

A peek behind the scenes on how the wild 5 challenge came about

Every day at Santa Barbara Wildlife Care Network, injured wild animals are brought in to be cared for, rehabilitated, and released, so as to thrive in the wild. Among the injuries we see, many are, sadly, preventable.The Wild 5 was conceived to mitigate these injuries by inspiring the public to make small impactful changes in their day-to-day lives.

Wild Welcome was originally supposed to be a packet, mailed to homeowners, tenants, and homeowners associations to welcome them to their wild neighborhood. The idea was to educate people about where they lived, the wild neighbors around them, places of interest to visit, and local resources for better co-existence with wildlife. The idea has grown, and grown!

Wild Welcome and the Wild 5 Challenge educates the public about some of the most preventable ways wildlife can get injured in a perilous world. These actions challenge the assumption that wildlife and human life are separate, and instead encourage us to think of the interwovenness of nature and community. On a practical level, the Wild 5 is a set of wildlife conscious actions grounded in practice and real wildlife rehabilitation experiences. In the Q&A that follows Ariana Katovich and Becky Gaal dive into the origins of the Wild 5 Challenge and its roots in wildlife rehabilitation. Enjoy!

How did you come up with the Wild 5 challenges?

The Wild 5 was born directly from what we see every day at the Santa Barbara Wildlife Care Network hospital. Over 4,000 animals a year come through our doors, and while some arrive because of natural causes, a large portion are injured due to preventable human impacts: fishing line entanglement, rodent poison, car strikes, window collisions, and habitat disruption.

Our starting point was the everyday threats we saw repeatedly; fishing line entanglements, window strikes, pet-related injuries, poisoning, and the sudden rise in glue‑trap cases. The issue was that we couldn’t pick just one thing!

We asked ourselves: which five actions, if widely adopted, would greatly help wildlife?

What if we could address these root causes before the animals ever got hurt? The Wild 5 emerged as a simple, public-facing “challenge” to bridge the gap between wildlife rehabilitation and everyday choices people make in their neighborhoods.

How do these actions help wildlife rehabilitation?

By reducing preventable harm through these actionable challenges, we’re not just saving individual animals—we’re helping entire populations. Rehabilitation is about giving animals a second chance. But the truth is, many of the animals we admit shouldn’t have been injured in the first place. By reducing preventable harm whether it’s keeping poison out of the food chain or slowing down on a rural road, we decrease the number of patients who need care – which means more resources for unavoidable cases (like natural illness or storm injuries). The Wild 5 empowers communities to proactively become partners in wildlife care.

What is a recent story of an animal affected by harmful practices the Wild 5 hopes to mitigate?

One story I can’t shake is a glue trap that was brought to our center- on this small glue board were three different species of wildlife none of whom were the intended “target.” A small songbird, a lizard, and a mouse were all stuck together, struggling and stuck next to another species of animal they’d likely run from in the wild. Glue traps are marketed as simple pest solutions, but in reality, they are indiscriminate and often catch whoever happens to pass by: birds, reptiles, and even beneficial pollinators.

This heartbreaking case is exactly why one of the Wild 5 actions is to keep our environment poison- and trap-free. Choosing humane alternatives not only spares animals from unnecessary suffering, it also prevents the chain reaction of harm that ripples through our ecosystems.

And, we want people to know if an animal is stuck on a glue trap, to find a local wildlife rehabilitator as quickly as possible to help.

Are there actions that didn't make the wild 5 challenge, ones you played with but ultimately set aside for a later date?

No kidnapping or moving wildlife. This is a good one. I would say that: Wild animals are not pets . Injured and orphaned wildlife should be brought to a licensed wildlife rehabilitator for help. Many animals need specialized care, and some habituate to humans more easily so knowing how to handle specific species is really important. Our goal is to keep wild animals wild.

If you find yourself in a situation where you see a baby wild animal on the ground, call a wildlife rehabilitator to make sure it is really in trouble! Some animals, like crows and owls, fledge the nest and spend some time on the ground before they can fly. Many rehabbers can take a look at photos and videos and let you know if the animal is truly orphaned, or just in a natural stage of its development.

What are some of the ways you envision the Wild 5 Challenge growing?

The Wild 5 Challenge was designed to address universal challenges to wildlife. While we treat wildlife every day here in Santa Barbara and Ventura counties, the actions of the Wild 5 can be adopted anywhere. Fishing line, poisons, window strikes, glue traps, tree-trimming, and pet interactions are issues faced by wildlife everywhere and we encourage anyone to see how small changes can lead to big positive impacts for wild animals

Looking ahead, we see several ways the Challenge can grow:

Partnerships & Collaboration : We’d love to see businesses, environmental organizations, and municipalities integrate the Wild 5 into their sustainability practices—whether that’s fishing supply stores educating customers, hardware stores replacing glue traps with humane options, or city governments endorsing wildlife-friendly pest control.

Local to global : The Wild 5 can scale far beyond our community. We envision the Wild 5 being adopted by schools, neighborhood associations, zoos, and nature centers worldwide as a simple, shareable call to action.

Education & Youth Engagement:The Wild 5 Challenge has a natural fit in classrooms, after-school programs, and scout groups. Kids love tangible actions they can take, and the Wild 5 provides just that: a way to protect the wild animals they see in their own backyards.

Storytelling Through Patients : Every Wild 5 action is rooted in real patient stories, pelicans with fishing hooks, raptors poisoned by rodenticides, or lizards caught in glue traps. As we continue to share these stories, the public will see that their choices are not abstract, they have a direct line to the wellbeing of animals.

Living in harmony with wildlife is possible. Small changes in our neighborhoods can create a safer, more sustainable environment for all creatures!

Be a part of our growing wildlife-aware community by taking the challenge today!

Do the Wild 5!

AND dive deeper into living with our wild neighbors by exploring these resources:

https://theiwrc.org/resources/emergency/north-america/

https://wildlife.ca.gov/HWC

https://www.myoutdoorbuddy.com/articles/134373/cdfw-reminds-the-public-to-leave-young-wildlife-alone.php

Turtle House Hunting

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 18:30:21 GMT

Releasing a healthy animal back into the wild is more complicated that it may seem.

When an animal in our care is ready to be released into the wild, the process involved is more complicated than simply going to an appropriate environment and releasing it. In fact, planning for release starts at intake. Alongside taking the vitals of the animal, wildlife rehabilitators also document where the animal was collected from. If you have brought an injured animal into SBWCN, you will surely be familiar with the intake form which asks about the address the patient was found. This is because rehabilitators as SBWCN do their best to return the animal to its original habitat after it is treated and deemed releasable.

There are other factors than location to consider when rehoming a species. If the injured animal had wandered from its place of origin after being injured, the location it was picked up from may not be suitable for release. A grounded bird for instance could have wandered away from its natural environment in search of food or safety, or a small mammal could have been carried by a larger predator some ways from its home. Additionally if the species is a flocking or sociable one, it may need to return to its specific group or another who could fill the role without bringing further harm to the individual.

Recently a patient rehoming story came to my attention that was more complicated than anticipated. A Southwestern Pond Turtle, known as patient 716, was admitted in mid-April with a shell fracture. Today, 716 has healed to the point of release but his return to the wild is delayed until his point of origin or a suitable habitat is located by SBWCN. However 716 was picked up in the middle of town, an unusual place to find a turtle. Heavy rains earlier in the season had occurred and it was suspected that 716 had been caught up and washed downstream. Some spaces upstream however were either too contaminated or at risk of further erosion so releasing 716 is tied up in discussion and deliberations amongst biologists to determine the best location for his return to the wild.

Other difficulties arise when releasing Western Pond Turtles like patient 716. Releasing some species becomes entangled with legal considerations as well depending on if the species is native, threatened, or endangered. California has specific laws of take and handling for its protected species on top of the federal ones in place by the Endangered Species Act of 1973. The Western Pond Turtle is one of these species. Wildlife rehabilitation hospitals like SBWCN, alongside other nature and wildlife centers, need to pursue proper accreditation and have special permits to even handle protected species like the Western Pond Turtle. What this means for release, is that special thought needs to be put into where these turtles are rehomed as they need to return to a space that allows the turtle to thrive and reproduce without artificial intercession.

Western Pond Turtles underwent some legal and classificatory drama during the past decade. Researchers determined that the species known as the Western Pond Turtle was in fact genetically distinct enough to be reclassified as two species. Thus, where the umbrella species was originally considered a vulnerable population, this split of the whole community into two separate species counts meant the total population numbers were also divided. Worries about a vulnerable species grew as people reconsidered that the number left in the wild was in fact much smaller than they had previously thought. Now anxious about the diminishing population of the Western Pond Turtle, conservationists petitioned for its inclusion in the federal Endangered Species Act List of endangered species (ESA) and on the state level for California with the California Endangered Species Act (CESA). While federally, the Western Pond Turtle remains in limbo, it is protected in California.

Currently SBWCN staff are following two leads to get the western pond turtle released. In one avenue of inquiry, they are sleuthing out its place of origin through following the turtle's paper trail, looking at likely habitats, and trying to determine patient 716’s home. All the while SBWCN staff are also surveying new locations for 716, determining if these new spots would provide a suitable habitat where he could thrive. Whichever one they find first might very well become 716’s new habitat as he is getting ready to graduate rehab with a clean bill of health.

Wish us luck on our turtle house hunting!

UPDATE 9/19/25: After 152 days in care, one of our longest in residence patients this year, Western Pond Turtle 716 has finally been released!

References and Further Reading:

Western Pond Turtle (Actinemys marmorata) | U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. (2024, April 3). https://www.fws.gov/species/western-pond-turtle-actinemys-marmorata

Western Pond Turtle More Critically Endangered Than Once Thought. (2014, June 10). https://www.biologicaldiversity.org/news/press_releases/2014/western-pond-turtle-06-10-2014.html?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=20613662605&gbraid=0AAAAAD3I-HN7uD-5Pkwu_Dzj6pM65appY&gclid=CjwKCAjw4efDBhATEiwAaDBpbuTF-eZnUymyqdGCPLzxaY3E8A6h4i7nYeRu8NEevzJEyusJ5RwvjxoC1k8QAvD_BwE

California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB). July 2025. State and Federally

Listed Endangered and Threatened Animals of California. California Department of Fish

and Wildlife. Sacramento, CA.

Patient Stories: Western Pond Turtle 3386

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 23:53:30 GMT

On August 7th a Western Pond Turtle, Patient 3368, was admitted to Santa Barbara Wildlife Care Network because he was found trailing fishing line from his mouth. The reporting party was worried that at the other end of the fishing line, within the turtle, was a hook.

Fishing hooks are common sights in injured wildlife. Our animal care staff is constantly dealing with the aftermath of gulls or herps who are admitted with fish hooks caught on them. Patient 3368’s admittance was a sad, but overall common, occurrence at SBWCN. With banality however, comes innovation. Because fishing hooks are a common sight, staff and volunteers are attuned to the ways these tools injure wildlife. Dr Chooljian, our resident veterinarian, wasn't surprised that a western pond turtle had come in with an ingested hook and treatment was started right away.

The first step of Patient 3368’s treatment was assessment. X-Rays were taken at intake to assess the hooks orientation, where the vet team found a second, larger hook, in 3368’s stomach. After this surprising discovery, Veterinary Technician Becca Mallatt, brought 3368 to our center's CT machine to confirm the orientation of the hook, as well as scan for other underlying issues that may impact the turtle's treatment plan. CT imaging a turtle came with its own challenges.

Though known for their slowness, turtles still move, and anyone who has seen a medical show will be familiar with the nurse instructing a patient getting CTs to “lie still.” To mitigate turtle movement, we encouraged 3368 to be still via swaddling in a pillowcase. The CT was necessary, because aside from confirming the hook in the turtle's palate, imaging also shed light into the direction and interaction of the hooks with the turtle's body. Patient 3368 was scheduled for surgery on August 12.

The evening before his operation, 3368 began preparing. Animal care staff were instructed to withhold food, a common pre-surgery practice to control regurgitation while under sedation during the intervention. The morning of, 3368 was sedated so that he wasn’t fighting against vet and vet tech. Turtles, and all herps, are notoriously hard to sedate, their physiology working against anesthesia making sedation unpredictable. Not only can they hold their breath for extended periods, but anesthesia also wears off quickly in their bodies.

The process of sedating 3368 took roughly an hour before he was deemed malleable enough intubate, a breathing tube was inserted to help him during the operation as well as help the vet team manage his anesthesia. With the already small size of the western pond turtle, intubating the patient seemed a mix of standard medical procedure and needle point crafting. Tubes were reviewed to find one small enough for the patient, oxygen applicators were improvised to be turtle sized, and all while making sure the patient wasn't biting down on any stray fingers- a muscular reflex that could seriously injure the vet team.

After intubation and still relaxed from his initial sedation, 3368 sat for x-rays with his head and feet relaxed outside his shell. Imaging confirmed the two hooks in clearer detail and helped shed light on how to go about removing the first one. X-rays taken, 3368 was brought back to the operating room and hooked up to anesthesia once again. An esophageal feeding tube was placed to help 3368 with post surgery feedings and medicine. Now, with an ECG to monitor heart, pulse oximeter to monitor blood oxygen levels, thermometer to monitor body temp in place so as to carefully check the patient was taking at least two breaths per minute, it was finally time for surgery.

Dr Chooljian initially entered through the mouth, using hemostats to try to grab where the hook and line were attached to move the hook through where it had… hooked… into 3368’s mouth. Fishing hooks are barbed at the end so the best way to remove it would be to continue the hooks trajectory, piercing through the skin instead of being unhooked, where it could cause more damage. Though she attempted to pass the hook through the neck internally, ultimately there was not enough space to maneuver the hook internally without hurting 3368 further. Dr Chooljian changed tracks.

She opted to cut an incision through the neck skin of 3368 with a scalpel, cutting down through tissue to grasp at the hook and remove it from a position outside of the turtle. Though not as clean as internally maneuvering through the neck, ultimately this allowed the vet team to remove the hook with minimal damage and working with the patient's biorhythms. Patient 3368 was now one hook free, with only one suture as consequence. He would heal in time.

Stories like 3368’s are truly special and the Santa Barbara Wildlife Care Network is so privileged to be able to grant this type of support and care for wildlife. The capacity to intubate and perform surgery on a western pond turtle, is a special and unique thing. We are so excited to be able to share this rare moment of multispecies care with you.

We hope you enjoyed it.

A Bobcat Story

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 01:10:26 GMT

Number of days in care: 105 days

We’ve received 11 total Bobcats this year, which is very rare for us! Here is one story we’d like to share in what we are calling the year of the Bobcat!

This Bobcat was admitted to the SBWCN Wildlife Hospital on August 24th after being rescued with a lameness in its left pelvic limb. Over the course of 105 days in care, this juvenile bobcat faced numerous challenges, including a suspected lead exposure, a slight limp, and difficulty ambulating. Despite these obstacles, the dedicated veterinary team and staff worked tirelessly to support its recovery.

Through a carefully monitored treatment plan, which included pain management, antibiotics, and nutritional support, the bobcat’s condition steadily improved. Regular check-ups showed progress, with the cat regaining its ability to move and climb, despite initial concerns about its mobility. The team adjusted the bobcat's diet and medication as needed to ensure optimal recovery, including additional care to manage stress and anxiety.

By early November, the bobcat was eating well, showing no signs of the original lameness, and even began hunting live prey, a crucial step in preparing for its release. It was transferred to a larger, more enriched enclosure with the help of Flying Tails , where it thrived alongside another rehabilitating bobcat, further boosting its chances of successful reintegration into the wild.

On December 4, 2024, after nearly four months of expert care, this Bobcat was released back into its natural habitat, strong and healthy.

This success story is a testament to the resilience of wildlife and the commitment of those who work tirelessly to ensure their recovery.

Bobcat Fun Facts:

Bobcats can sprint up to 30 miles per hour while chasing prey. When stalking, they step with precision, placing their back feet exactly where their front feet landed to minimize noise and stay undetected.
Bobcats are incredibly adaptable, thriving in environments ranging from deserts and swamps to forests and scrublands across North America. They can even coexist near human developments.
Bobcats are solitary creatures with territorial ranges. A male’s home range may overlap with several females', but these cats rely on scent marking and visual signals to avoid confrontations with one another.
Bobcats have white spots on the backs of their ears, which help kittens follow their mothers in dim light. If a kitten strays too far, the mother raises her tail to reveal its white underside, signaling them to catch up.
Unlike domestic cats, bobcats rarely meow. Instead, they communicate with birdlike chirps, chortles, and, during mating season, eerie screams. You can hear some of their sounds and what they mean here.

A Brown Pelican Story

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 01:01:44 GMT

Species: Brown Pelican

Beginning April 23rd and continuing through July, Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties witnessed a Brown Pelican Mortality event. Santa Barbara Wildlife Care Network cared for 174 Brown Pelicans in 2024, including those suffering from malnutrition and dehydration during the Pelican event.

SBWCN responded with an emergency effort to monitor and treat the affected birds. Though the cause is not fully known yet, it is the second event in 2 years to happen in California. Birds were showing up en masse at wildlife rehabilitation centers from San Francisco to San Diego during this significant event. Today we want to share the story of one of many who came into our care.

A juvenile female Brown Pelican was admitted on May 16, 2024, after being found at a fuel dock in Ventura, CA. She was noted as not moving and presented with moderate dehydration, pale mucous membranes, feather lice, and a severe laceration to her pouch.

Throughout her 54-day stay in care, extensive treatment was provided for the pouch laceration, including two surgical repairs. Recovery was monitored closely, with repeated suture checks, hydration support, and pain management. Despite initial healing challenges, her stamina and flight abilities improved over time.

On July 9, 2024, she was federally banded and released back into her wild home at Ventura Harbor, joining nine other pelicans in a celebratory release event to mark the success of our pelican rehabilitation efforts.

Brown Pelican Fun Facts:

This seabird was classified as federally endangered in 1970 and as endangered by the state of California in 1971, but was delisted as a federally listed species in 2009.
The only breeding colonies of Brown Pelicans in the western United States are on West Anacapa and Santa Barbara Islands.
It takes 5 years for a Brown Pelican to reach maturity
Their pouch is very large and it is a good thing because they can eat as much as 4 pounds of fish per day!
Brown pelicans can dive from 60 feet in the air.
Brown pelicans can live up to 40 years old.
Their wingspans are 6.5 feet and their weight is 8 pounds generally but it depends on their gender.

How To Help Wild Animals After The LA Wildfires

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 19:52:05 GMT

Wildfires in Los Angeles don’t just affect people—they devastate local wildlife, leaving animals injured, displaced, and struggling to find food, water, and shelter. If you live near wildfire-affected areas, you can play a crucial role in helping wild animals recover—right in your own backyard.

Here are practical steps you can take on your property to support wildlife in the aftermath of wildfires.

1. Provide Natural Food Sources

Wildfires burn through food supplies, leaving animals hungry and desperate. You can help by:

Planting native plants that provide berries, seeds, and nectar.
Leaving fallen leaves and branches—they attract insects, which birds and small mammals rely on for food.
Using bird feeders responsibly—offer natural seeds like sunflower or millet, and clean feeders regularly to prevent disease.
Not feeding animals human food, which can be harmful and make them dependent on humans.

2. Make Your Yard Wildlife-Friendly

A fire-damaged ecosystem needs time to recover. You can create a safe and welcoming environment for animals by:

Avoiding pesticides and herbicides, which can harm already vulnerable wildlife.
Letting some areas grow wild—long grasses and native plants provide hiding spots and food.
Keeping outdoor lights dim or off at night—bright lights can disorient nocturnal animals.
Securing trash bins to prevent desperate animals from scavenging unsafe food.
After a wildfire, keep pets closeby to not disturb wild animals that are actively fleeing the fire or searching for new habitat.

3. Prevent Future Wildfires

One of the most effective ways to protect wildlife is by reducing fire risks around your property:

Clear dry brush and dead leaves to minimize fuel for fires.
Trim low tree branches that could carry fire to the canopy.
Store firewood and flammable materials away from structures and trees.
Follow local fire safety laws—never leave open flames unattended.

Final Thoughts

You don't need to be a wildlife expert to make a difference--small actions at home can help wild animals recover after the LA Wildfires.

Rabies Info - Animals To Avoid Handling

Sun, 23 Feb 2025 20:52:21 GMT

Rabies is a serious viral disease that affects the nervous system of mammals, including humans. It's almost always fatal once symptoms appear, making prevention and caution essential. Understanding which animals are common carriers and knowing how to respond if you encounter them can protect both you and your community.

High-Risk Rabies Carriers

In many regions, certain wild animals are more frequently identified as rabies carriers. These include:

Bats : Found nationwide, bats are a leading source of rabies transmission to humans.
Skunks : Particularly in certain areas, skunks are common rabies vectors.
Raccoons : Widespread across various regions, raccoons are known carriers.
Foxes : Both red and gray foxes can transmit the virus.
Coyotes : Though less common, coyotes have been reported with rabies infections.

These animals can carry the rabies virus without showing obvious signs, so it's crucial to avoid direct contact.

Recognizing Potential Rabies Infection

While not all animals with rabies exhibit symptoms, some signs to watch for include:

Unusual Behavior : Wild animals appearing unusually tame or aggressive.
Disorientation : Difficulty walking, stumbling, or appearing partially paralyzed.
Excessive Salivation : Foaming at the mouth or drooling excessively.

However, absence of these signs doesn't guarantee the animal is rabies-free.

What to Do If You Encounter a High-Risk Animal

Do Not Approach or Handle the Animal : Avoid all physical contact.
Keep Others and Pets Away : Ensure children and pets are at a safe distance.
Contact Local Wildlife Authorities : Reach out to your local wildlife rescue or animal control for assistance.

If you find an injured animal from the high-risk list, do not attempt to transport it yourself. Professionals have the necessary equipment and training to handle such situations safely.

If You've Had Contact with a Suspected Rabid Animal

Immediate Washing : Thoroughly wash any bites or scratches with soap and water.
Seek Medical Attention Promptly : Visit a healthcare provider immediately for evaluation and possible post-exposure prophylaxis.
Report the Incident : Inform local health authorities about the exposure.

Remember, rabies is preventable if treated before symptoms appear. Timely medical intervention is crucial.

Preventive Measures

Vaccinate Pets : Ensure your domestic animals are up-to-date on rabies vaccinations.
Secure Your Home : Seal entry points to prevent wildlife from entering living spaces.
Educate Your Community : Share information about rabies risks and safe practices.

By staying informed and exercising caution, you can help reduce the risk of rabies transmission in your area.

Rabies Info and Animals to Avoid Handling – FAQs

Can small animals like squirrels or rabbits carry rabies?
While all mammals can contract rabies, small rodents (like squirrels, mice, and chipmunks) and rabbits are extremely low-risk and rarely transmit the virus to humans.
What should I do if I wake up to a bat in my home?
Even if you don’t recall direct contact, a bat found indoors—especially in a bedroom—should be safely contained and tested for rabies. Contact local health officials or a wildlife professional immediately.
Do rabid animals always foam at the mouth?
No, while excessive salivation can be a symptom, rabies often presents as disorientation, unprovoked aggression, or unusual tameness. Some infected animals may appear lethargic or dazed instead.
Can my vaccinated pet still get rabies?
Rabies vaccines are highly effective, but no vaccine is 100% foolproof. If your pet has had contact with a potentially rabid animal, consult a veterinarian and follow local rabies protocols.
Why do some rabid animals act aggressively while others seem weak or dazed?
Rabies affects the nervous system in different ways. The "furious" form causes aggression and excessive movement, while the "paralytic" form results in weakness and confusion before paralysis.
What should I do if I accidentally touch a potentially rabid animal?
Wash the area immediately with soap and water and seek medical advice as soon as possible. Even minor scratches or saliva contact can pose a risk.
Is it safe to relocate a wild animal that seems sick but isn’t acting aggressive?
No, handling or relocating a sick wild animal is dangerous. Contact wildlife authorities instead—they are trained to assess and safely manage rabies risks.

How can I prevent rabies exposure in my community?

Keep pet vaccinations up to date, avoid feeding or interacting with wild animals, and report any unusual wildlife behavior to local animal control or public health officials.

Avian Influenza Notice

Sun, 26 Jan 2025 22:19:04 GMT

Avian flu, or bird flu, is a disease that affects wild and domestic birds, occasionally spreading to humans in rare cases. While it might sound alarming, understanding how avian flu works and how to respond can help reduce risks and protect both wildlife and people. Most of the time, avian flu remains a concern for bird populations, but knowing how to recognize signs of the disease and take simple precautions can keep everyone safe.

Wild birds, especially waterfowl and shorebirds, are natural carriers of avian flu. These birds sometimes don’t show symptoms but can spread the virus to domestic poultry and other species. Outbreaks in wild bird populations are part of the natural cycle, but large-scale events can impact local ecosystems and the health of backyard flocks.

One of the easiest ways to minimize risks is to avoid handling sick or dead birds. If you come across a bird that appears ill—such as one struggling to fly, showing disorientation/neurological symptoms, in respiratory distress,, or with unusual swelling—report it to your local wildlife authorities. They can monitor the situation and take the necessary steps to manage the spread. Do not touch deceased or sick birds.

For bird lovers, it’s especially important to keep feeders and birdbaths clean. Regularly washing and disinfecting these items helps prevent disease transmission between birds. If an avian flu outbreak is reported in your area, consider taking down feeders temporarily to reduce gathering spots for wild birds.

Avian flu is also a reminder of how closely human and wildlife health are connected. Backyard poultry owners should take extra precautions, such as keeping domestic birds separate from wild bird populations. Simple actions like having separate boots for entering coops, keeping feed covered, and monitoring your flock for signs of illness can make a huge difference.

Did you know that avian flu is one of the most studied animal diseases in the world? Decades of research have given scientists a deep understanding of how it spreads and how to control it. Thanks to this knowledge, we have tools to protect both wildlife and human communities. Awareness and early reporting are key to preventing larger outbreaks. The CDC and USDA have more information on Avian Flu.

Avian Flu – FAQ

What steps can I take to protect my backyard birds from avian flu?
Keep feeders and birdbaths clean, avoid attracting large flocks, and watch for signs of illness. If avian flu is reported nearby, temporarily take down feeders to reduce gathering spots.
Are there specific precautions I should take if I own backyard poultry?
Yes! Keep your poultry separate from wild birds, wash your boots before entering coops, and monitor your birds for any signs of illness. Cover feed and water to prevent contamination.
What can I do if I notice an unusual increase in bird deaths?
Report it to your local wildlife authority immediately. They will investigate and take steps to prevent further spread.
When should I stop feeding birds to reduce the risk of avian flu transmission?
If an outbreak is reported in your area, pause feeding until it’s safe again. This helps prevent large gatherings of birds, which can spread disease.
How can I monitor bird activity in my area to help prevent the spread of avian flu?
Stay informed through local wildlife organizations. Keep an eye on unusual bird behavior and report any sudden increase in illness or deaths.
 What should I do if I come into contact with a sick or dead bird?
If handling an animal can not be avoided, full PPE should be worn, including gloves, an N-95 face mask, hair covering, protective glasses or goggles, and a long-sleeved full body gown or coveralls.Wash your hands immediately and disinfect any surfaces that came into contact with the bird. Contact your local wildlife authority and/or health department for further guidance and contact your health provider.