Home / Disasters and Accidents / Owner Defies Evacuation, Saves Animals from Wildfire
Owner Defies Evacuation, Saves Animals from Wildfire
30 Sep
Summary
- Owner Peter Lang stayed behind to fight fires and save animals.
- Nearly 1,000 animals of 98 species were safely evacuated or protected.
- While the preserve was saved, Lang's own home a mile away burned.
In October 2017, Safari West owner Peter Lang defied evacuation orders during a wildfire near Santa Rosa, California, to protect his wildlife preserve. Lang remained on-site amidst the encroaching flames, personally fighting fires and ensuring the safety of the preserve's approximately 1,000 animals across 98 species.
Despite his own home burning down a mile away, Lang reported that no animals, birds, or buildings at the preserve were lost. His heroic efforts included driving nyala antelope through a ring of fire and extinguishing spot fires. The preserve, established in the 1980s, opened to visitors in 1993 and housed diverse species.
While the preserve's emergency plans existed, staff received only 15 minutes to evacuate. Many employees lost their homes, but all animals were accounted for and confirmed safe. This event highlights the critical role owners and staff can play in defending properties during wildfires, as also seen in a 2007 NIST case study and a 2025 California Agriculture survey.
