How two Bruins used film and science to reframe a ‘spooky’ species
UCLA College’s new “Cabinet of Curiosities” podcast explores the fang-tastic North-South collaboration
La Kretz Center for California Conservation Science
California wildfire smoke linked to reduced bird activity and health
Wildfire smoke significantly impacts California bird populations, leading to decreased activity and body mass, according to new UCLA study.
Project Phoenix uses community science to learn how smog and smoke affect birds
All are invited to participate in new program from UCLA and Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
Wildfires drive L.A.’s mountain lions to take deadly risks
UCLA and National Park Service researchers studied the cougars’ movements before and after the Woolsey Fire
NEWS
Headline
Announcing Winners of the 2026 La Kretz Center and Stunt Ranch Reserve Research Awards
Congratulations to our 2026 awardees!
La Kretz Center Partners with Turtle Survival Alliance on Joint Initiative to Transform Turtle Conservation
The Atlas of Turtle Genomes for Conservation is a national effort to generate high-quality genomic reference maps that will revolutionize conservation and support the repatriation of trafficked turtles.
In memoriam: Morton La Kretz, 100, alumnus, environmental champion and lifelong supporter of UCLA
Morton La Kretz served on the IoES advisory board and established the UCLA La Kretz Center for California Conservation Science. Administered through the IoES in partnership with the National Park Service, the center is a pioneer in science aimed at preserving California’s rich biodiversity.
Joseph Curti for UCLA Newsroom – Bats aren’t bloodsucking monsters.
ChatGPT said: The UCLA Newsroom interviewed La Kretz Center Postdoctoral Fellow Joseph Curti about his efforts to reshape public perceptions of bats through evening bat walks held across the City of Angels.
Headline
Postdoctoral Fellow Joey Curti interviewed on UCLA’s Cabinet of Curiosities podcast
La Kretz Center Postdoctoral Fellow Joey Curti was featured on the UCLA podcast to talk about his work on the short film Bat Boy and to help dispel common misconceptions about bats.
Announcements
La Kretz Center/Stunt Ranch 2026 Research Awards
Now Accepting Applications from UCLA Undergraduate Students, Graduate Students, & Postdoctoral Researchers. Deadline to Apply: December 1st, 2025
