Southern California's Coastal Waters Become Thriving Whale Superhighway
More whales are making Southern California's coast their home, with unprecedented sightings of various species drawn to warming waters and rich feeding grounds. While some species flourish, others face challenges, highlighting the complex impact of changing ocean conditions on marine life.
Northern California Bears Skip Hibernation, Causing Suburban Encounters
Black bears near Redding are abandoning traditional winter hibernation patterns, leading to increased encounters in residential areas. Wildlife officials report over 100 annual bear-related calls in Shasta County alone, prompting concerns about changing wildlife behaviors due to human food sources.
Marines Lead Innovative Desert Tortoise Conservation at Mojave Military Base
At California's Twentynine Palms Marine base, an unlikely sanctuary dubbed 'Tortoise Gitmo' houses 1,000 endangered desert tortoises. The unique military-conservation partnership combines protective facilities with strict training protocols to help preserve this keystone species facing dramatic population decline.
Legal Battle Erupts Over Luxury Housing Project in LA's Verdugo Mountains
A Nevada developer's plans for a 221-home luxury development in Los Angeles' Verdugo Mountains faces fierce opposition from environmental activists. The conflict centers on wildlife protection and land preservation, with both sides now engaged in a court battle as a 2026 development deadline looms.
Ground Squirrels Turn Predator: Surprising Discovery Reveals Carnivorous Behavior
UC Davis researchers have documented California ground squirrels hunting and preying on voles, challenging long-held beliefs about rodent behavior. The groundbreaking study found predatory behavior in 42% of squirrel-vole interactions, prompting scientists to reevaluate their understanding of these traditionally herbivorous animals.
Desert Guardians: Southern California's Wild Burros Face Population Management Challenges
San Bernardino County's beloved wild burros, descendants of mining-era pack animals, are at a critical juncture as their growing population raises environmental concerns. Conservation groups and officials seek balanced solutions to preserve both the iconic animals and the delicate desert ecosystem they inhabit.
Sacred Return: Yurok Tribe Restores California Condors to Ancestral Lands
After a century-long absence, the Yurok Tribe successfully reintroduced California condors to their Northern California homeland in a historic conservation effort. The project, led by Wildlife Director Tiana Williams, represents both ecological restoration and preservation of sacred tribal traditions.
First Human Rabies Death in Three Decades Strikes Central California
A Fresno County resident has died from rabies after a bat encounter, marking the region's first fatality in 32 years. The rare case, which has prompted health officials to conduct exposure assessments, underscores the importance of caution around wildlife and immediate medical attention for animal bites.
Massive Sea Lion Colony Creates Spectacular Show at Monterey Bay
An extraordinary gathering of hundreds of sea lions has transformed Monterey Bay's shoreline into a bustling marine metropolis, drawing crowds of fascinated observers. Wildlife experts are monitoring this unusually large congregation while reminding visitors to maintain safe distances from these charismatic but powerful marine mammals.
Urban Mountain Lions Become Night Hunters to Avoid Human Contact
Mountain lions in Los Angeles are adapting their behavior by becoming more nocturnal to minimize human interactions, according to new research. The study tracked 22 mountain lions and found that those living near humans have shifted their activity patterns while still maintaining successful coexistence.