Biologists Catch Bear in Altadena to Assist Local Homeowner
Bear Takes Shelter in Altadena Crawlspace
A 500-pound bear has settled into the crawlspace of a home in Altadena, causing concern for the homeowner, Ken Johnson. Despite efforts by biologists to capture the animal, the persistent guest remains.
Last month, Johnson noticed items on his property being disturbed, prompting him to install a surveillance camera. This confirmed his suspicions: a black bear was roaming around. He soon discovered that a screen covering his crawlspace had been ripped open.
“When I saw it all torn up, I thought, ‘He must not be under there,’ because there is no way a bear could fit,” Johnson remarked.
To address the situation, Johnson enlisted the help of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. The department set a trap outside his home, hoping to capture the bear. However, on Tuesday, a different bear was inadvertently caught. The department confirmed that this bear was processed, tagged, and released into a suitable habitat the following afternoon.
Johnson’s bear, meanwhile, has taken a liking to the confined space, often spotted emerging briefly before returning to its temporary home. The homeowner and the wildlife officials are continuing their efforts to entice the bear out safely.
“Our biologists attempted hazing techniques to draw the bear out from the crawlspace, but it did not respond,” a department spokesperson stated. “We will maintain close communication with the homeowner throughout this process.”
Efforts to remove the bear are ongoing as Johnson seeks to regain control of his property while ensuring the animal’s safety.
