Local Wildlife

A close-up of a small brown and white rodent with large black eyes, being held gently in a person's hand.

Redlands is a great place to live, work, and play—for residents and local wildlife. Conservation efforts by the City of Redlands and the Redlands Conservancy help protect native wildlife and habitat. These open spaces contain miles of multi-use trails, preserved land and restored native habitat, and are open to the public.

Visitors may encounter wildlife while enjoying these spaces.  Common wildlife species include:

– Snakes
– Coyotes
– Lizards
– Birds
– Squirrels
– Gophers
– Wild burros

You may also come across some of our more reclusive neighbors:

– Owls
– Bobcats
– Foxes
– Mountain lions
– San Bernardino Kangaroo Rats (a local endangered species!)

Local wildlife depends on us to keep their habitat safe. We depend on them, too. Predators help control rodent populations, while rodents help spread seeds and support the food web.

When recreating, remember to “Leave No Trace,” or “LNT.” This means leaving the environment as you found it, or better. Follow these LNT principles while enjoying open space in Redlands.

  • Stay on the trail – staying on the designated path prevents erosion, protects native fauna, and keeps our impact low. This also applies to bikes and horses.
  • Pack it in & pack it out – dispose of all waste properly, leaving nothing behind.
  • Leave what you find – sticks and rocks are fun to collect, but they also make up the habitat of local species. Some animals may rely on these items for shelter or survival.
  • Respect wildlife – do not disrupt burrows, nests, or other traces of wildlife. (You wouldn’t want someone to ransack your home!)

Most wildlife wants to be left alone. Never approach, feed, or attempt to handle wildlife. Everyone should take precautions to keep both themselves and animals safe.

If you encounter a wild animal creating an immediate public safety concern, contact the City of Redlands Animal Services for guidance and appropriate response.

Redlands Animal Services
504 Kansas Street
Redlands, CA 92373
(909) 798-7644

For after-hours emergencies, call RPD dispatch at (909) 798-7681 ext.1

Click here for specific information on rattlesnake encounters.