Wildlife

Santa Cruz County Animal Control responds to sick, injured, or dead wildlife, with the exception of deer and marine mammals, within the Cities of Santa Cruz, Scotts Valley, Capitola and Watsonville, as well as unincorporated Santa Cruz County.

• To report injured or sick deer, please contact California Department of Fish and Wildlife dispatch at (916) 358-1312.
• Please report marine mammals that appear to be ill, abandoned or in danger to the Marine Mammal Center at 415-289-7325 (SEAL).

Sometimes wild animals can be rescued, rehabilitated and released back into the wild. Before contacting the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter regarding wildlife conflicts or emergencies, please visit Native Animal Rescue at www.nativeanimalrescue.org or call 831-462-0726.  They will advise if the animal can be rehabilitated. Most baby animals should be left in place, unless the mother is confirmed to be deceased or badly injured. If it can be done safely, all juvenile wild mammals, as well as adult or juvenile birds can be transported to Native Animal Rescue between 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. at 1855 17th Avenue in Santa Cruz.

If these organizations are unable to rescue the animal, call 831-454-7224, and an Animal Control officer will respond and humanely euthanize the animal to help alleviate its suffering.