Environment
Bobcat burned in Camp Pendleton wildfire returns to the wild
An adult male bobcat rescued with severe burns after July's Pipeline Fire at Camp Pendleton has returned to the wild following 65 days of treatment.
San Diego Humane Society officials said the bobcat arrived at the Ramona Wildlife Center on July 28 with first- to third-degree burns across all four paw pads, an acute kidney injury, severe emaciation and a heavy tick infestation. He weighed about 7.5 pounds.
Rescued: July 28 after the Pipeline Fire
Treatment: 65 days at the Ramona Wildlife Center
Released: September 30 near the original rescue area
Recovery doubled the bobcat's weight
The Project Wildlife team provided fluids, nutrition, pain management and wound care, including light therapy for the burned paw pads. Staff later moved the animal to an indoor-outdoor enclosure and used remote cameras to monitor him while limiting human contact.
By release day, the bobcat weighed more than 15 pounds, his paw pads had healed and officials said his anemia and organ values had resolved. Camp Pendleton personnel joined the Humane Society team for the release near the area where he was found.
Original report: NBC 7 San Diego / City News Service →
Official organization: San Diego Humane Society →