09/03/2026
This baby turkey vulture rescued from the Big Sur wildfires is now safe and recovering at the SPCA Monterey County Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Center.
This nestling was found all alone in the middle of closed Highway 1 near Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. He was thin, cold, and smelled strongly of smoke. We believe the 40-50 day old nestling was forced to fledge prematurely when he and his parents fled the heavy smoke and flames from the nearby Timber Fire.
Weighing only 780 grams, about the size of a teddy bear, he has a long way to go to reach a healthy adult size, but with warmth, proper nutrition, and supportive care, our team expects a full recovery.
As first responders during disasters, SPCA Monterey County is actively providing emergency aid for all animals impacted by the Timber and Plaskett fires, including pets, barn animals, and wildlife. We are currently sheltering 14 evacuated pets in addition to this little turkey vulture.
Plaskett and Timber Fire Animal Rescue Information:
If you are under an evacuation order or warning, please take your pets with you if it is safe to do so.
🐾 Small Pets: Bring them directly to official county Emergency Shelter Locations.
🐴 Livestock & Barn Animals: Call us at 831-373-2631 (8 AM–5 PM) or our after-hours line at 831-646-5534 for transport and sheltering help.
🎒 Disaster Prep: Get your emergency pet plan ready now. Download free toolkits at www.spcamc.org/disaster.