In California, wildfires can be dangerous for both people and animals. After a big fire burned through Topanga Canyon, scientists rushed to save a special type of fish called the Southern California steelhead trout. These fish are endangered, which means there aren't many left. They live in Topanga Creek, the last place in the Santa Monica Mountains where they can be found.

The fish survived the fire, but heavy rain made things worse. When rain falls on burned land, it washes ash, dirt, and debris into the water. This can make it hard for fish to breathe and survive. Experts say there might only be 400 to 500 of these trout left, so it was important to rescue them.

Saving the Trout
On January 23, a team from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) and other groups worked together to move the fish to safety. They used special tools to catch the fish carefully and placed them in buckets. Then, they took the fish to the Fillmore Fish Hatchery, a safe place where they can live until it's safe to return them to the creek.

Most of the fish they rescued were less than 12 inches long. These fish are amazing because they can either stay in the creek their whole lives or travel to the ocean and come back. Keeping them safe helps the environment and improves water quality for people too.

Helping Wildlife After Fires
CDFW is also helping other animals that were hurt or displaced by the fires. They work with wildlife experts to rescue and care for injured animals. Scientists are also finding new ways to help animals heal, like using fish skin to treat burn wounds.

As wildfires rage in the United States, California is working to protect people and nature. CDFW is clearing dry plants and trees in areas that could easily catch fire. They also help animals in other emergencies, like floods and droughts. By protecting wildlife and their homes, they are also helping California's people and nature stay healthy for the future.

Southern California Steelhead