Ventura County has an abundance of wildlife, including mountain lions, bobcats, foxes and coyotes. These predators roam our hills along with skunks, opossums, and raccoons. Some of these visitors are frequent guests in our neighborhoods. We must coexist with these creatures as we are the intruders into their habitat.
TRAPPING: Trapping and relocating does not solve the problem of wildlife who encroach on our property. Removing animals creates a void inviting others to move in. Wild animals who are caught in a trap must be released at, or very near to, the location from which they originated. Ventura County Animal Services responds only to calls of injured or at-risk wildlife. Our department is prohibited by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife from picking up and/or relocating healthy wildlife.
How to know if a wild animal needs your help?
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- The animal is brought to you by a dog or cat.
- There is evidence of bleeding.
- The animal has an apparent/obvious broken limb.
- A bird is featherless or nearly featherless and on the ground.
- The animal is shivering.
- There’s a dead animal parent nearby.
- The animal is crying and wandering all day.
Rabies Prevention
If your dog, cat or livestock has an encounter with wild animals (particularly bats, skunks, raccoons and coyotes) you must immediately report that interaction to Ventura County Animal Services (805) 388-4341, and your veterinarian as these animals can harbor the deadly rabies virus.
If you have questions or need additional information regarding wildlife near you, our knowledgeable staff are standing by to assist you: (805) 388-4341 or info@vcas.us
