Report to City Council
ID:26-0139 Page 1
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Brian Mohan, City Manager
AGENDA DATE: April 7, 2026
TITLE: REPORT AND UPDATE REGARDING RECENT INCIDENTS
INVOLVING WILD BURROS (REPORT OF: CITY MANAGER)
(DISTRICT 2)
TITLE SUMMARY: Report and Update Regarding Recent Incidents Involving Wild Burros
DISTRICT: District 2
Recommendation(s)
That the City Council:
1. Receive and file this report regarding recent incidents involving wild burros, and
2. Provide direction to staff, as appropriate.
SUMMARY
The City of Moreno Valley has b een monitoring ongoing incidents involving the injury of wild burros in the region. Since 2025, more than 20 undomesticated burros have been injured, with many suffering from arrow wounds or severe trauma. Several animals required humane euthanasia due to the extent of their injuries.
Recent incidents have occurred in unincorporated areas of Riverside County, though prior cases have been reported near Moreno Valley city limits. These incidents have raised concern within the community and among regional partners.
Moreno Valley’s undomesticated burros are a beloved community treasure and an important part of the City’s identity. This report is provided to update the City Council on
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current conditions, coordination efforts, and public awareness initiatives.
DISCUSSION
The Riverside County Department of Animal Services is leading the investigation into these incidents. The City of Moreno Valley continues to coordinate with the County and regional partners by sharing information and responding to calls within City jurisdiction, as appropriate.
To support a timely and effective response, residents are encouraged to report any sightings of injured burros or relevant information directly to Riverside County Animal Services at (951) 358-7387. Reporting directly to the appropriate agency ensures that information reaches the investigative team without delay. Calling 911 for these situations may result in delays, as reports must be redirected; however, in cases where a motorist has struck a burro or encounters an injured animal on the roadway, residents should call 911 so Animal Services can be dispatched promptly. After hours, calls are routed to an emergency line to address urgent situations.
The City has initiated public outreach efforts to raise awareness and impr ove reporting coordination. This includes dissemination of information through official City communication channels to ensure residents understand how and where to report incidents.
Staff also continues to emphasize community education regarding the prote ction of wild burros:
Do not feed the burros. They are wild animals, and feeding them diminishes their natural instinct to forage and reduces their natural caution around people. It is illegal to harm or harass undomesticated burros pursuant to Moreno Va lley Municipal Code Section 10.02.115. Harassment includes any intentional act that disrupts an animal’s normal behavioral patterns.
Do not approach burros. They are territorial and protective, particularly of their young. A kick from a burro can cause serious injury.
Slow down when driving in areas known as “burro country.” Burros do not distinguish roadways from their natural habitat, and motorists should remain vigilant.
Although burros are resilient and well adapted to Southern California’s environment, they face increasing risks due to human interaction. Community awareness and responsible behavior are critical to their protection.
Staff will continue to monitor developments, coordinate with partner agencies, and provide updates to the City Council as appropriate.
ALTERNATIVES
1. Approve and authorize the recommended actions as presented in this staff report.
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Staff recommend this alternative.
2. Do not approve and authorize the recommended actions as presented in this staff report. Staff does not recommend this alternative.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact associated with this report.
NOTIFICATION
Publication of the Agenda.
PREPARATION OF STAFF REPORT
Prepared By: Department Head Approval:
Johncito “John” Peraza Brian Mohan
Assistant to the City Manager City Manager
CITY COUNCIL GOALS
CITY COUNCIL STRATEGIC PRIORITIES
1. Economic Development
2. Public Safety
3. Library
4. Infrastructure
5. Beautification, Community Engagement, and Quality of Life
6. Youth Programs
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Report Approval Details
Document Title: STAFFREPORT_CM_BURROS_UPDATE.docx
Attachments:
Final Approval
Date:
Apr 2, 2026
This report and all of its attachments were approved and signed as outlined below:
Brian Mohan
Natalia Medina
Felicia London, MPA
Launa Jimenez
Patty Rodriguez