With the Airport fire aflame since Sept. 9, some escaping wildlife may be finding its way into local neighborhoods, authorities warn. Sparked in Trabuco Canyon, the blaze quickly grew and has engulfed about 23,500 acres in Orange and Riverside counties.
Officials said fire crews had achieved about 81% containment as of Monday with personnel using the recent cooler weather to their advantage in controlling the fire. While fire crews have gained the upper hand, there are still concerns that animals fleeing the blaze may become lost, disoriented or have been injured and officials are warning residents of what to do if they come across the wildlife. If residents discover an injured or displaced animal, they are encouraged to call their local animal care center.
Anyone who finds an animal in these conditions should not approach or try to provide assistance – for everyone’s well-being. Any wildlife encounters in Dove Canyon, Mission Viejo, Rancho Santa Margarita or Robinson Ranch should contact Mission Viejo Animal Services at 949-470-3045. For encounters with injured, dazed or deceased animals in unincorporated county areas, such as the canyons, Coto de Caza, Rancho Mission Viejo and Ladera Ranch, local are urged to contact OC Animal Care at 714-935-6848.
Feeding human meals or pet food is not always the best option for wild animals, officials said. It can lead to more problems as most foods found in homes do not meet the dietary standards the animal needs to thrive. Supplying.