Full Breakdown
California Officials Employ Sweet Strategy to Lure Bear from Home
12/6/2025, 12:10:48 AM
Bear Takes Refuge Under Altadena Home
A 550-pound brown bear has been residing under the home of Altadena resident Ken Johnson for over a week. Johnson, a product photographer, initially attempted to coax the bear out using jelly rolls and other sweet treats, but these efforts were unsuccessful. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) has since intervened, employing a sweet-scented spray designed to attract the bear. CDFW spokesperson Cort Klopping described the spray as a highly concentrated chemical compound with a potent aroma of caramel and cherries, which bears find appealing.
Monitoring and Management Efforts
Biologists from CDFW have set up remote monitoring cameras around Johnson's property to observe the bear's movements. Klopping noted that the bear has been tagged and previously relocated from the Angeles National Forest, approximately 10 miles away. The agency's strategy aims for the bear to exit the crawl space voluntarily, which they consider the best-case scenario. If the bear does leave, CDFW has recommended that Johnson place ammonia-soaked rags around the crawl space to deter its return.
Unexpected Complications
Johnson's attempts to manage the situation were complicated when a second bear appeared at his home, further disrupting his efforts to lure the first bear out. This unexpected visitor arrived early one morning, prompting Johnson to contact CDFW for assistance. Klopping confirmed that the bear is not considered a public threat, advising Johnson to maintain a safe distance and monitor the situation remotely.
Community Safety Measures
CDFW has urged local residents to secure their crawl spaces to prevent similar incidents. Klopping emphasized that the bear's behavior is typical for the San Gabriel Valley, where the mild climate allows black bears to remain active without hibernating. He noted that the bear likely sought shelter in Johnson's crawl space as a warm and comfortable den.
Official Statements & Responses
Cort Klopping stated, “The plan of getting this bear to exit the crawl space on its own is the best-case scenario. That’s what we’re hoping to do right now with the lure that’s been placed in the backyard.” He also reassured the public, saying, “There’s no reason to believe additional response is needed. It doesn’t appear the bear is posing a threat to the public.”
Criticism & Opposition
While officials have taken a measured approach, some community members have expressed concerns about the safety of having a large bear in a residential area. The presence of the bear and the complications arising from the second bear have raised questions about wildlife management practices in suburban environments.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This is a chemical compound that is highly concentrated and has a very potent smell of caramel and cherries and that is in an effort to coax the bear out from where it is right now” — Cort Klopping, CDFW Spokesperson
- “It’s scary when I don’t know where it is,” — Ken Johnson, Resident
- “The bear mostly thinks of this area as its home,” — Cort Klopping, CDFW Spokesperson
The situation remains dynamic as officials continue to monitor the bear's behavior and work towards a safe resolution.
