Greg Randall is the longtime wildlife specialist for the city of Los Angeles. Before participating in a panel celebrating the wild creatures of L.A., he talked cats, roadrunners, and being called The Coyote Man in the Zócalo green room.
What was your first pet’s name?
Apollo—a cat.
What’s the biggest mistake people make when they see wildlife in their yard?
To believe that the animals are aggressive just by their appearance there.
If you could have any superpower, which would you choose?
The power to heal animals at will.
What is your best childhood memory?
My father brought home a roadrunner he had found that was struck by a car. I was about 11 years old, and it needed to be cared for, and I was able to nurse it back to health on my own. That was my first situation rescuing a wild animal.
How do you like your eggs?
I try not to eat eggs anymore, but I used to like them scrambled.
What inspires you?
Seeing children learn about wildlife.
What does it take to get you out on a dance floor?
Probably just a quick kick in the pants.
Have you ever had any nicknames?
People used to call me The Coyote Man.
What film have you seen the most times?
Lord of the Rings.
What’s your favorite secret or under-the-radar L.A. spot?
The Tam O’Shanter restaurant in Los Feliz.