In a surprising turn of events, a family from Altadena, California, encountered an unexpected visitor upon returning to their evacuated home. The homeowner, Samy Arbid, learned that a utility company could not restore power due to the presence of a large bear hiding under the house. This incident occurred after residents had left their homes due to the dangerous Eaton fire. Authorities took swift action to safely relocate the bear, which weighed an impressive 525 pounds. It took nearly 24 hours for a team of eight wildlife experts to capture and transport the animal to a suitable habitat. The story highlights the importance of securing properties against wildlife intrusion, especially in areas prone to bear activity.

A Perilous Encounter with Nature

The return of residents to their evacuated homes brought an unforeseen challenge when a massive bear was discovered beneath one of the houses. The homeowner, Samy Arbid, along with his neighbors, had fled due to the destructive Eaton fire. Upon attempting to restore utilities, workers found that a bear had taken refuge in the crawl space. Arbid expressed concern for the animal, believing it was likely frightened by the situation. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) was called in to address the issue promptly.

The CDFW faced a significant challenge in capturing the bear, given its size and location. After assessing the situation, they determined that chemical immobilization was not feasible. Instead, the team opted for a humane trap baited with food. They procured various items like rotisserie chicken, sardines, tomato sauce, apples, and peanut butter, creating an enticing meal for the bear. Within minutes of setting the trap, the bear emerged from its hiding spot and entered the trap. Barry the Bear, as he came to be known locally, was then transported to Angeles National Forest. There, he underwent a health check, received a GPS collar, and was measured before being released into the wild just after midnight.

Preventing Future Incidents

Following the successful relocation of the bear, the CDFW emphasized the importance of preventive measures to avoid similar situations. The agency advised residents in bear-prone areas to secure their properties, particularly crawl spaces, with bear-proof materials. This precaution is crucial during the winter months when bears seek shelter for denning. The organization highlighted the significance of proactive steps to protect both human habitats and wildlife.

The incident serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human settlements and natural habitats. As urban areas expand into regions traditionally inhabited by wildlife, encounters like this are likely to increase. By taking preventive actions, such as reinforcing structures and maintaining a clean environment free from attractants, residents can significantly reduce the risk of unwanted wildlife visits. The CDFW encourages all residents in bear country to stay informed about best practices for coexisting harmoniously with these magnificent creatures. Securing crawl spaces and other potential shelters is a simple yet effective way to discourage bears from seeking refuge in residential areas, thereby safeguarding both property and wildlife.