A bird and a wild ass succumb to fire

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San Pasqual Valley:

The Wild Animal Park reports two fire fatalities: a clapper-rail bird and a kiang, also known as a Tibetan wild ass. Necropsies are pending. Neither animal was burned, so smoke inhalation is suspected.

The rest of the 3,500 animals survived without injury, a park spokesman said. Many moved (voluntarily) to the center of the expansive areas toward ponds and away from fire burning on the perimeter.

‘Their instinct is to move away from fire,’ said spokesman Andrew Circo. No need for reverse 911 calls.

-- Tony Perry