As fire raged nearby, a tiny town’s zoo animals were driven to safety BIG BEAR, Calif. (AP) — With a major wildfire burning near his mountain town east of Los Angeles, Cowboy the barn owl was unaware of the danger and instead having the adventure of a lifetime. Perched in the front seat of a truck, Cowboy — along with nearly 50 other animals — was being evacuated Sept. 12 from the Big Bear Alpine Zoo in the face of the advancing Line Fire, which blazed through more than 60 square miles (155 square kilometers) of the San Bernardino National Forest.
“He was so excited to be there. He was really happy to be working with the animals.”
Mike Barnes, Director of Animal Care and Health at the Living Desert Zoo and Garden in Palm Springs, was thrilled to be working with the rescued animals. He was particularly excited about Cowboy, a rescued Arabian horse who had been living in a neglected state.
The Big Bear Alpine Zoo has been a vital part of the conservation efforts for many years. They have a long history of rescuing and rehabilitating injured and orphaned animals. They have also been involved in breeding programs for endangered species. The zoo has been involved in a series of events that have highlighted the importance of wildlife conservation.
The eagle’s blindness is a direct result of the pesticide DDT, which has been banned in the U.S. since 1972. However, the pesticide still lingers in the environment and can affect wildlife, even decades after its ban. The eagle’s blindness is a stark reminder of the long-term consequences of environmental pollution and the importance of protecting our natural resources.
* The sandhill crane population in the United States is declining. * The decline is attributed to habitat loss and fragmentation. * A veterinarian examined a sandhill crane with arthritis. * The crane was not suffering from a serious illness but was simply grumpy. * The crane’s arthritis was likely caused by the change in temperature.
This routine, repeated every Thursday, is a testament to the care and dedication he has for his feathered friends. He meticulously prepares their food, cleans their enclosures, and ensures their well-being. Barnes’ dedication extends beyond the routine. He is a passionate advocate for wildlife conservation, actively engaging in community outreach programs and educating the public about the importance of protecting endangered species.
“Today we’re going to be crating her back up, hopefully voluntarily, getting her loaded up in one of our transport shuttles and getting her back up to the zoo,” Palmer said. “She’ll be a lot happier, a lot more comfortable hopefully, and back with her neighboring foxes.”
