Bear Incursion in Altadena: A Community Confronts Wildlife Challenges

A 550-pound black bear, tagged as number 2120 by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, has taken up residence in the crawl space of a home in Altadena, California. Homeowner Ken Johnson first noticed the bear on November 25, prompting him to seek assistance from wildlife officials. Despite efforts to lure the bear out using sweet-scented lures and ammonia towels, the bear has remained in the crawl space for over two weeks. Johnson humorously referred to the situation as “unbearable,” expressing both frustration and affection for the animal, stating, “He’s a nuisance and he’s living under my house rent-free.”

The bear's presence in Altadena is part of a broader trend of wildlife encroachment in the area, particularly following the Eaton wildfire that affected the Angeles National Forest in January. This wildfire has driven wildlife, including bears, into residential neighborhoods. In the aftermath, at least two other bears weighing over 500 pounds were reported seeking refuge in homes that had been evacuated. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife has noted an increase in bear sightings in Los Angeles County, particularly in foothill communities.

Wildlife biologists have faced difficulties in coaxing bear 2120 out of its hiding spot. They have set up remote monitoring cameras and deployed a concentrated lure that emits a strong aroma of caramel and cherries to attract the bear. The goal is to lead the bear to a cart for safe transportation to a different location. Cort Klopping, a spokesperson for the department, indicated that this bear had previously occupied another home in Altadena before being relocated about 10 miles away. It remains uncertain if this bear is one of those that appeared after the wildfire.

The ongoing situation has caused stress for residents like Johnson, who has reported hearing growls at night and is concerned about potential damage caused by the bear. The black bear population in California is estimated to be between 49,000 and 71,000, with significant numbers residing in various regions, including Los Angeles County. As bear sightings become increasingly common, the community faces challenges in balancing wildlife conservation with residential safety.

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife continues to monitor the situation closely, employing various strategies to safely relocate the bear. Officials emphasize the importance of human-wildlife coexistence while addressing the concerns of residents regarding safety and property damage.

Some community members express frustration over the increasing bear incursions, highlighting the need for more effective wildlife management strategies. Critics argue that the current measures may not adequately address the growing interactions between bears and residents, calling for a reevaluation of policies related to wildlife conservation and urban development.

“Nonetheless, Johnson says, having a bear living below his feet has proved stressful.” — Ken Johnson, Homeowner

“He’s a nuisance and he’s living under my house rent-free,” — Ken Johnson, Homeowner

“Reports of bear sightings are increasingly common in LA’s foothill communities.” — California Department of Fish and Wildlife Spokesperson

“This time around, however, fish and wildife biologists have struggled to lure bear 2120 out of its hiding place below Johnson’s home.” — Cort Klopping, California Department of Fish and Wildlife Spokesperson