Tensions are high in Burbank, where a large bear has been ambling through a neighborhood, prompting calls for action from concerned residents. For more than a week, the bear has made itself at home on Elmwood Street, captured in a video early Tuesday morning near residential homes, as reported by ABC7. Locals have expressed fears over safety and property damage, urging officials to address the situation as sightings continue.
According to KTLA, the bear was first recorded by a vigilant resident on April 19, who captured footage of the animal on two consecutive nights. After subsequent encounters, a bear sighting alert was issued by Burbank Animal Control for the 1200 block of Elmwood Avenue, a sign of growing unease among the community members. "It’s a wild animal…imagine someone is walking their dog or is just walking and the bear attacks them," a concerned resident known as Jack told KTLA.
In response to resident concerns, Burbank officials have released precautionary advice. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife emphasizes never to approach or pick up a bear cub, and if encountering a bear, do not run but instead, face the animal, make noise, and appear as large as possible. Those attacked should fight back. For bear encounters or attacks, residents are advised to call 911 immediately, with less urgent wildlife sightings reportable to (818) 238-3340. The Burbank Animal Shelter also outlined steps to minimize bear attractions, suggesting secure trash storage and keeping barbeque grills clean and stored away.
Residents are not just scared by the bear's presence; there's bona fide concern for the potential escalation of encounters. The Burbank Animal Shelter, which can be reached at (818) 238-3340 for wildlife reports, offers further guidance on their website, including tips on trash management and making noise while hiking to avoid startling bears.
