The Forest Service will gather about 450 Montgomery Pass horses beginning July 8 to protect Mono Lake wetlands, reigniting tribal and legal fights over the herd.

Tahoe National Forest moved to Stage 1 restrictions on June 26, banning campfires outside developed sites and planning night‑flying drones with infrared cameras over the July 4 weekend.

A plush toy fell into Guinness the alligator's exhibit and was swallowed; veterinarians attempted an endoscopic removal before the animal later regurgitated the toy. The zoo is urging visitors to alert staff if items enter exhibits.

Davis police searched north Davis after reports of an unconfirmed mountain lion near Wintun Place. Officers used foot patrols and a drone but did not locate the animal.

A $500,000 state grant will fund three miles of trail and three bridges to connect Hidden Falls Regional Park with Big Hill Preserve, expanding public access in Placer County.

Five orphaned black bear cubs released in November 2025 hibernated successfully and returned healthy, state wildlife officials say. The fall release was an experimental test.

The Mechoopda tribe reclaimed roughly 450 acres near Big Chico Creek in Butte County, a state‑backed land return meant to restore stewardship and protect the watershed.

Yosemite has declared the start of its 2026 fire season and is urging visitors to follow campfire, smoking and parking rules as fuels dry. Park officials warn restrictions could tighten as conditions worsen.

From the Yolo Causeway to downtown bridges, experts estimate about half a million bats stream out each night — a spectacular natural pest‑control force and a conservation challenge.

Trail camera footage captured three mule deer using California’s first state‑highway wildlife overpass in Siskiyou County. Officials say the crossing and fencing aim to reduce deadly collisions and reconnect habitat.

A possibly injured bear was seen near Parkside Terrace in Auburn. Police warned residents to avoid the animal, secure trash and keep pets inside while authorities monitor.

Police warned Davis residents after a mountain lion was spotted near Kestrel Place on a popular north‑city bike path. Officers and wildlife officials are monitoring the area.

A California bill would shift state demonstration forests from a logging-first mission toward restoration and invite tribes into co-management of ancestral redwood lands.