One of the craziest wildlife encounters I’ve had in a while👇
I was hiking an extremely remote stretch of shoreline:
No cell service
Miles from the trailhead
Cliffs on one side and rising tide on the other.
A coyote ran past, disappearing eventually up the bluff.
Moments later, I found a deer on its side in the surf, nearly eaten, but still alive, stunned, and being slowly pulled by the waves.
Every instinct tells you to help.
But wildlife rescue isn’t always safe, legal, or effective.
According to California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW):
• If you find injured or orphaned wildlife, you should contact a local wildlife rehabilitator or animal services division
• Most rehabilitators are volunteers and not on-call 24/7
• They usually do not capture or transport animals
• Keeping a safe distance is not just advice, it’s the law. You often see people going viral trying to save sharks only to get bitten themselves
For marine mammals (seals, sea lions, dolphins, whales, sea otters), NOAA requires that all injured, stranded, or entangled animals be reported immediately to: (866) 767-6114.
These species are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, and human interference can result in serious harm or legal consequences.
So, I made the hardest choice: I walked away.
Not because I didn’t care.
But because sometimes the most responsible action is restraint.
⚠️ If you encounter injured wildlife: • Do NOT touch or move it • Keep your distance • Contact CDFW, local animal services, or NOAA immediately
Wild moments aren’t always meant to be rescued.
Sometimes they’re meant to be respected. #fyp #wildlifeencounter #wildlife
Experiencing wildlife up close, especially injured animals, can be emotionally intense and challenging. It’s natural to want to help, but acting responsibly is crucial not only for the animal’s safety but also for your own wellbeing. This wild encounter on a remote shoreline highlights the reality that sometimes the best help is no direct interference. When hiking in remote areas without cell service, encountering vulnerable wildlife like a coyote or an injured deer can be both thrilling and heartbreaking. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) strongly advises hikers to keep their distance and avoid touching or moving injured animals because untrained handling can cause further injury or distress. Most wildlife rehabilitators are volunteers and may not be available immediately to assist, and they typically do not capture or transport animals themselves. Marine mammals such as seals, dolphins, and sea otters fall under the protection of the Marine Mammal Protection Act. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) mandates immediate reporting of any injured, stranded, or entangled marine wildlife by calling (866) 767-6114. Interference with these protected species can lead to severe legal consequences and adversely affect the animals' chances of survival. This means that the instinct to rescue must be balanced with knowledge about wildlife laws and ethical considerations. Sometimes walking away and reporting the sighting to the proper authorities is the most responsible choice. It prevents stress and harm to the animal and protects you from dangerous situations, such as bites or unexpected reactions. For hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, it’s important to carry a guide or have access to emergency contacts for wildlife services when venturing into isolated natural areas. Carrying a whistle, a map, or a GPS device can help in navigating safely since cell phones may not work. Additionally, educating oneself about local wildlife species and recognizing signs of distress can enhance safety. Wildlife encounters offer unique insights into nature’s rawness. However, respect and restraint are vital. Instead of attempting direct rescue, documenting the situation with photos and notes for authorities can be more helpful. Sharing these experiences responsibly can raise awareness about wildlife protection and inspire others to adopt similar practices. Remember, wild moments are often meant to be observed with respect, not direct intervention. Protecting the delicate balance of nature ensures these incredible encounters remain possible for everyone.
