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550-Pound Bear Stuck in Altadena Crawl Space

12/20/2025

30 3 Full Breakdown

Center

Bear Den Situation

Yellow 2120, a 550-pound bear, remains in Ken Johnson's crawl space in Altadena, despite CDFW removal efforts.
A trap for Yellow 2120 captured a different bear, signaling a high local bear population.
Ken Johnson first noticed signs of the bear in February after local wildfires.
He installed cameras that confirmed the bear's presence.
CDFW officials note this behavior is typical as bears seek warm dens during winter.

Right

Ken's Bear Dilemma

Ken Johnson of Altadena, California, has a 550-pound bear living under his house for over three weeks.
He canceled his Christmas party and joked guests should bring their own bear.
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife is trying to remove the bear with traps and scent sprays, but has not succeeded.
Johnson hopes for a "Christmas miracle" to end the disruption.

History

Historical Context

California's wildfires have intensified due to climate change, with 2020 marking a significant year as the California Department of Fish and Wildlife reported a 20% increase in bear populations in urban areas. This trend, exemplified by a 550-pound bear in Altadena, underscores the growing conflict between wildlife and urban development, necessitating urgent wildlife management discussions.

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Bear Den Situation

Yellow 2120, a 550-pound bear, remains in Ken Johnson's crawl space in Altadena, despite CDFW removal efforts.
A trap for Yellow 2120 captured a different bear, signaling a high local bear population.
Ken Johnson first noticed signs of the bear in February after local wildfires.
He installed cameras that confirmed the bear's presence.
CDFW officials note this behavior is typical as bears seek warm dens during winter.

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