MCB Camp Pendleton Wildlife

Photo By Chief Warrant Officer Zachary Dyer | In an undated photo, the sign for Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, posted along Interstate Highway 5 reads, 'Preserving California's Precious Resources.' Camp Pendleton is the premier Fleet Marine Force training base on the West Coast. (Courtesy Photo)  

CAMP PENDLETON, CA, UNITED STATES

03.01.2024

Story by Gunnery Sgt. Patricia Morris 

Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, CALIF. – Nestled along the picturesque coastline of Southern California, MCB Camp Pendleton is not only a premier amphibious and expeditionary warfare military installation but also a haven for a wide variety of wildlife, including 19 threatened and endangered species. From the rolling hills to the expansive beaches, the base is home to an array of fascinating creatures thriving in its diverse habitats.

MCB Camp Pendleton takes active steps to preserve regional wildlife and natural resources while providing Marines with the training spaces necessary to meet training and readiness requirements. Many animals call the installation home due to these preservation efforts.

One of the most iconic residents of Camp Pendleton is the California least tern, a small seabird that nests along the sandy shores of the base. Protected under the Endangered Species Act, these elegant birds can be spotted darting through the sky or resting on the beach, a testament to the conservation efforts that are in place to protect their habitat.

Inland birds Camp Pendleton residents might see most often are vultures. These birds are territorial, nonaggressive towards people, and frequently find nests around a reliable food source. They are more active in housing areas during trash days. To prevent vultures and other birds from nesting in housing areas, keep trash lids closed.

"Vultures cannot open trash can lids; however, if the lid is left partially cracked, they can push it open and get into the garbage," said James Asmus, Head of Uplands Management Section, Conservation Law Enforcement, MCB Camp Pendleton. "The best prevention is not to overflow the garbage cans or leave trash bags out."

On land, Camp Pendleton boasts a variety of terrestrial wildlife, including bobcats, coyotes, and a wide range of other bird species. The rolling hills and expansive grasslands provide ample space for these creatures to roam and thrive, creating a harmonious balance between military operations and the natural world.

Harmoniously living with the wildlife on Camp Pendleton requires base patrons to keep food sources away from backyards, patios, and accessible entry points into homes. These small steps help keep residents from waking up to a surprise visitor, such as a raccoon.

"Bold raccoons in the past have snuck a look inside a residence at night if food has been left out, such as dog or cat food," Asmus explains. "The best thing to do is to ensure the food is put away at night and not left out on the patio or by any dog doors."

Coyotes are often seen throughout the base roaming for food or looking for other coyotes. They are spotted roaming the foothills in the spring quite often because when male coyotes hit a certain age, they are known to search for new packs.

Another species found in the training areas are Tarantulas. These spiders are known for being ground-dwellers and live in old rodent burrows. Tarantulas may look intimidating, but their bite is not dangerous, and it is common to find them in some homes or buildings.

"If you find a tarantula, I would not kill it; just get a dustpan and broom and move it back outside," advises Asmus.

The preservation of wildlife and natural habitats is a priority for MCB Camp Pendleton, with conservation efforts and partnerships in place to protect and enhance the base's biodiversity. Through education, research, and habitat restoration initiatives, the base is continuously dedicated to ensuring the sustainability of its wildlife populations for future generations to enjoy.

As visitors and residents alike explore the vast expanse of MCB Camp Pendleton, they are reminded of the importance of coexisting with nature and the beauty that can be found in the unspoiled landscapes of this military installation. From the stunning coastal vistas to the diverse array of wildlife, MCB Camp Pendleton is a treasure trove of natural wonders waiting to be discovered and appreciated.

• Date Taken: 03.01.2024
• Date Posted: 03.07.2024 14:42
• Story ID: 465153
• Location: CAMP PENDLETON, CA, US