We know that reporting wildlife issues in Los Angeles can be frustrating and problematic.  CLAW is not licensed to attempt the rescue or rehabilitation of wildlife, but we hope you can use this page to find contact information for organizations and resources that help injured birds and wildlife, or to report conditions that endanger wildlife and habitats.

Wildlife issues that are at the forefront of citizens coexisting with wildlife can also be found here. Wildlife and habitat health are at the core of our mission and we continue to update this page as we uncover valuable resources and educational material. 

Wildfires and Animals

Wildfires are a year-round risk in Los Angeles. Some fires can lead to tragic losses of lives and homes, and all wildfires affect habitat for our local wildlife. 

Different animals have different survival techniques when facing a fire. Some dig a hole and let the fire pass over them, while others flee. Unfortunately, many animals will not survive. As habitat in California continues to shrink and fragment, the animals that are able to escape fires become displaced, and may be more likely to appear in our neighborhoods.

The following tips are important to follow under any conditions, but are especially vital during and after a wildfire:

Photo Credit: Heidi Newsome/USFW

Photo Credit: Heidi Newsome/USFW

  • Keep pets indoors, in order to reduce potential wildlife conflicts.

  • Drive carefully, as animals may be more likely to be on the streets.

  • Do not leave food or water out for wildlife. Though this sounds like a kind gesture, animals are able to find water on their own instinctively, and leaving water out in your yard may habituate them to your home. For more info on how leaving out food harms wildlife, read this article.

  • Keep animals wild. Never feed or provide shelter to wildlife.

  • With vegetation burned, animals may become more visible. Keep in mind that if you see an animal, it may be because it has become more difficult to hide or camouflage, and not because the animal is injured or threatening.

  • If you find an animal that has been burned, contact one of the rehabilitators listed below.

Living with Urban Coyotes

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Keeping coyotes wild and wary is the key to successful coexistence. You may see and hear them more during mating season (Dec - Feb) and when juveniles are dispersing from family groups (Sept - Nov). Coyotes may be more protective of dens and territories during pup rearing season (April - August).

Most coyotes are reclusive and may observe you for a moment, then disappear, but bold coyotes should not be tolerated. Instead, give them the clear message through hazing to not get too comfortable near people and in urban spaces. These safety and hazing tips will help increase your comfort and decrease conflicts when living or recreating near North America’s native “Song Dog.”

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  • If a coyote approaches you, don’t run. Wave your arms, make noise and walk toward the coyote until he retreats. Never corner a coyote.

  • If you live in an area with regular coyote sightings, always carry hazing tools (umbrellas, flashing lights, whistles, air horns, bells, “shaker” cans full of marbles or pennies, pots, lids, or pie pans) when you go out or walk your dog.

  • Always walk dogs on a leash not exceeding 6 feet (LA City Muni Code Sec 53.06.2). Walk in pairs or groups. Pick up your small dog if you see a coyote.

  • Don’t feed coyotes. Their life and your safety depend on coyotes remaining wild and naturally wary of people. Do not leave water accessible to coyotes.

  • Do not feed pets outdoors, or if you must, monitor and remove the food and water immediately.

  • Do not leave small dogs or cats outdoors unattended, even in a fenced yard.

  • Do not let refuse attract a coyote; pick up trash and litter. Keep garbage cans tightly closed.

  • Reduce brush under trees and trim hedges, clear places that might invite coyotes to take cover or den.

  • Quickly harvest ripe or fallen fruit. Rodents or small mammals that eat the fruit ultimately attract larger predators such as coyotes.

It is illegal to catch and relocate coyotes. According to California law, coyotes that have been trapped must either be released immediately in the same location or killed. Additionally, it is illegal to use leg or snare traps in Los Angeles. Many licensed trappers will insist that they are “humanely” removing animals, but these animals are likely euthanized if the trapper is following the law. Additionally, there is no such thing as “humane” catch and release, as relocating a coyote to an unfamiliar area becomes a death sentence for that coyote. If you have seen an advertisement or a social media post that promotes these activities, you can report them to California Department of Fish and Wildlife's tip line at 888-334-2258 or text your tip to 847411.

FAQs About Coyotes

For answers to some frequently asked questions about urban coyotes, click here.

Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease

In 2020, a disease known as Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease virus type 2 (RHDV2) was detected in wild rabbits in California for the first time. While it is not transmittable to humans or other animal species, this highly contagious, long-lived virus originated in domestic rabbits and now has the potential to cause significant declines in wild populations. The virus can be spread by the movement of humans and pets through soil where the virus is present, and carried into uncontaminated areas on clothing, fur, or bits of plant material.

The virus has now been confirmed to be present in Los Angeles County. To help keep our rabbits and hares safe, please keep the following tips in mind when you go out:

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  • Wash clothing and sterilize shoes with a 10% bleach spray before walking in areas where wild rabbits are present.

  • Try to photograph and note locations of lethargic or dead rabbits but do not handle them.

  • As always, keep dogs on a leash of 6 feet or less.

You can help the California Department of Fish and Wildlife by reporting sick or dead rabbits, hares, or pikas to their Investigations Lab: (916) 358-2790 or by filling out an online mortality report. A brochure about this disease can be found here. Map of infected areas can be found here.

Los Angeles Vicinity Rescue and Rehabilitation Organizations

Animals that appear to be abandoned or injured are often behaving in a way that is actually normal for their species, and handling them can do more harm than leaving them where they are. Generally, animals that seem stationary will go on their own by nightfall if given space and time.

Please contact one of these organizations before you approach a wild animal of any kind. Wild animals do not always understand that you are trying to help them. Keeping a safe distance and staying quiet until professional help arrives will help lower their stress levels.


Rehabilitation Centers for Injured and Orphaned Wildlife

Species Specific

LA City Animal Services Emergencies

Other Helpful Wildlife Resources