Spring Means Increase in Wildlife Activity
 
The City of Rancho Cucamonga is home to a diverse population of wildlife species. Similar to most communities in California, it is common for our residents all throughout the City to have visits from our wildlife neighbors such as coyotes, opossums, birds, and snakes. Our Animal Center is available to assist our residents with injured and orphaned wildlife and ways to humanely co-exist. Here are a few commonly asked questions and helpful tips.
 
I found a baby bird? What should I do?
 
In spring, it is common to find juvenile birds who are feathered (fledglings) hoping around on the ground. This is a natural behavior as they learn to fly. Their parents are most likely nearby monitoring them so their best chance of survival is leaving them where they are at and monitoring them at least overnight. 
 
Baby birds that need more immediate assistance are those that are obviously injured, are featherless and on the ground, are brought in by a cat, or the parents are known to be deceased. In these situations, the bird should be placed (if safe to do so) in a box and kept in a dark and warm location until our Animal Services Officers arrive. Do not attempt to feed the bird. The Animal Center will evaluate the bird and provide care until we can transfer it to one of our wildlife rehabilitation partners.
 
There are coyotes in our neighborhood. Can you trap and relocate them?
 
California law prohibits the Animal Center from trapping and relocating healthy wildlife, including coyotes. The Animal Center does respond to coyotes that are sick, injured, or are determined to be a public safety risk. We also encourage reporting sightings as it helps us monitor populations and travel patterns. In addition, our Animal Services Officers can provide assistance with tips on humanely co-existing with coyotes, including deterrents and hazing techniques. We can all do our part in minimizing coyote interactions by using these tips:
 
  • Never feed wildlife; bring all pet food and water bowls inside.
  • Secure all trash cans and routinely pick up fallen fruit.
  • Water lawns in the morning hours after it is light outside.
  • Keep small pets inside; walk dogs on a leash when outside.
  • Spay or neuter your pets and keep them current on vaccinations (especially rabies vaccine).
  • Trim back dense shrubbery and brush to reduce hiding places.
  • Carry a noise maker on walks (coke can with pennies in it, whistle, air horn, etc.).
 
For assistance with wildlife or for more information visit our website www.RCPets.info or contact our Field Services Division at 1-909-466-7387 option 1.