On a brisk January morning, Lauren Hamlett, the Director of Wildlife Education and Services at Pasadena Humane, led a nature walk through the Mountain View Cemetery & Mortuary in Altadena. A group of nature enthusiasts gathered as the first rays of sunlight illuminated the grounds, eager to explore the urban wildlife that thrives in this unusual sanctuary.
During the one-and-a-half-hour walk, participants observed various species inhabiting the cemetery, including birds and small mammals. Hamlett shared insights into the history of the cemetery while helping the group identify urban wildlife. “Some people think cemeteries are for the dead,” said Cyndee, a staff member at Mountain View Cemetery. “But when someone walks around, there is a lot of life, and the wildlife tours introduce the community to seeing that.”
Resilience After Adversity
The sanctuary of Mountain View Cemetery has faced challenges in recent months. The Eaton fire, which occurred close to the cemetery, threatened its landscape. Fortunately, the main structures survived, although fire damage affected fencing and the pump house. Cleanup took approximately two-and-a-half months, with restoration of water and electricity completed in September 2023.
In the aftermath of the fire, cemetery staff observed a significant decline in wildlife. The eight coyotes regularly spotted in the northern section of the cemetery were absent. To monitor wildlife recovery, the team set up a trail camera, which soon captured images of returning species such as coyotes, squirrels, skunks, and various birds.
While wildlife populations have not yet returned to pre-fire levels, Hamlett has noted a resurgence in activity during her walks. “I’m now seeing coyotes on nearly every walk,” she remarked, highlighting the resilience of urban wildlife. Access to reliable water and a safe habitat is crucial for their recovery.
Future Plans for Wildlife Conservation
With the restoration of water services, cemetery staff are optimistic that wildlife numbers will continue to grow. Hamlett mentioned ongoing plans to enhance the habitat, including the planting of climate-appropriate trees and partnerships with organizations like Pasadena Audubon. These efforts aim to ensure long-term recovery of wildlife in the area.
The wildlife walks, held monthly, provide an opportunity for community members to engage with nature in an often-overlooked setting. During winter, participants meet at sunrise, while spring and summer evening walks focus on nocturnal species, such as bats.
The next Cemetery Wildlife Walk is scheduled for February 15, 2024, at 6:30 a.m. Interested individuals can register at pasadenahumane.org/events. This initiative not only promotes wildlife education but also fosters a deeper connection between the community and the natural world that coexists within the cemetery’s serene environment.
Chris Ramon, president and CEO of Pasadena Humane, emphasizes the importance of viewing cemeteries as vibrant spaces that nurture both memory and life.
