A large bear spent part of Monday roaming a Pacoima neighborhood, moving through backyards, scaling fences, and startling residents and pets. The animal appeared on multiple live news feeds and in cell phone videos as it foraged near homes. Residents described a flurry of activity as animal control crews and police responded, and, according to some reports, nearby schools briefly went into lockdown.
Seen Near Chivers Avenue And Terra Bella Street
Aerial video captured the bear in the area of Chivers Avenue and Terra Bella Street, wandering across several yards and driveways. Local news choppers showed the animal climbing fences and nosing around outdoor pet bowls in the 12300 block of Terra Bella Street. Three nearby schools were reportedly placed on lockdown while crews worked to secure the animal, according to ABC7.
Officials Tranquilized And Removed The Animal
California Department of Fish and Wildlife personnel and Los Angeles police responded to the scene, with officials tranquilizing the bear and later lowering it from a fence before moving it into a trailer for transport. Local crews captured footage of the sedated animal being carried away, and earlier reports said a bear had been seen at nearby Hansen Dam Park, which authorities briefly evacuated. No injuries were reported, as noted by NBC Los Angeles.
Why Bears Come Into Neighborhoods And How To Reduce Risk
Wildlife experts say bears often move into urban areas when natural food sources are limited or when unsecured trash, bird feeders, or pet food provide easy calories. Removing attractants, securing garba,ge, and keeping pets and food indoors are among the simplest steps residents can take to lower the chance of repeat visits. Bear-safety organizations stress that taking these precautions reduces the odds that an animal will become food-conditioned and require removal, according to BearWise.
If You See A Bear
If you spot a bear, keep a safe distance, keep children and pets inside, and contact local authorities or the California Department of Fish and Wildlife so trained crews can respond. If you have photos or video, local coverage from FOX 11 notes that sharing them with officials can help them locate and remove the animal safely.
