Be Mindful of Wildlife this Memorial Day, State Officials Say

Memorial Day weekend is a busy time for California's parks. State officials want people to be mindful of wildlife, for the animal's and your own sake. 

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife says there may more bear and mountain lion sightings, as animals are going farther to find food and water during the drought.

They say it's also the normal nesting season for the state's only native turtle - which is considered a species of 'special concern.' Dana Michaels with the Department says the Pond Turtle can be found 500 yards from a body of water, and she says people should not disturb them. 

"The turtle is in trouble, mostly from competition for their habitat, they're sensitive to human disturbance. A lot of their habitat has been destroyed from construction from human activities," says Michaels.

People who are boating this weekend should be aware of lower water levels in some areas, which state officials say could be hazardous. They say all boats should be washed before a trip to a new body of fresh water. That can help prevent the spread of invasive Quagga mussels.

Video Courtesy Of Kelli Thompson: Mountain lion sighting from a trail cam north of Malakoff Diggins State Park