Deadly wildfires in LA have destroyed homes and businesses this week… and the massive fires have also upended local ecosystems to a frightening extent.
Jeff Corwin tells TMZ … right now the focus of the fires is – actually – on the deaths of people and the houses reduced to ashes. But domestic and wild animals are also severely affected by this “unprecedented catastrophe”.
TMZ.com
The famed biologist host points out that there are only 350 California condors left…”and a significant portion of the population lives in ground zero of the Palisades fires” – so there's a chance they could end up nearly wiped out.
Bears and mountain lions also lived in the fire areas – and JC says that means those that weren't killed or seriously injured could move inland to seek food, water and shelter… possibly leading to dangerous interactions with humans.
As residents return to the fire areas to check their homes, there's a chance they'll come across injured “large predators” and want to help… but Jeff says that's a bad idea. In this situation, keep your distance and call the appropriate authorities.
TMZ.com
The fires have also killed or displaced thousands of dogs, cats and horses. JC advises people trying to find their lost pets – the animal will likely return to the area of its former home…so have food, water and a small camera ready.
Several organizations and animal shelters are helping affected people who have pets… including Jeff's Brady Hunter Foundation …which donates $31,000 and matches donations to meet pet needs.