Rescued: Chonky 525-Pound Bear Found Hiding Under California Home After Wildfire!
A massive 525-pound bear took shelter under a California home after a wildfire, triggering a daring 24-hour rescue mission. đ #News #AltadenaCA #California #Wildlife
ALTADENA, CA – An unbearable surprise awaited a homeowner in Altadena, California, after returning from an evacuation during the Eaton Fire. The man discovered a massive 525-pound bear hiding beneath his house, blocking utility workers from restoring power. What followed was a high-stakes effort to remove the giant animal safely.
Bear Takes Shelter Underneath Home
Samy Arbid had just returned to his fire-affected home when the utility company broke the newsâpower restoration couldnât proceed because of an unexpected guest beneath the house.
The bear, weighing over half a ton, was known in the neighborhood, with locals calling him either Berry or Victor. The bear did not confirm which name he prefers.
Arbid says the bear likely sought shelter during the fire.
“I think during the fire he pretty much stayed in there,” Arbid explained, adding, “I think he was scared.”
Removing a 525-Pound Problem
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) revealed that a team led by CDFW Environmental Scientist Kevin Howells worked tirelessly to address the situation.
Over the course of 24 hours, a group of eight specialists assessed the risks and debated their options.
Given the bearâs massive size, tranquilizing the animal was not considered safe. “After assessing the crawlspace and size of bear, it became clear that chemical immobilization of the bear was not an option,” CDFW said.
Instead, they set a large bear trap outside the crawlspace and baited it with an irresistible feast.
Rotisserie Chicken, Sardines, and More
The bait consisted of a mix of mouth-watering items, including rotisserie chicken, sardines, apples, peanut butter, tomato sauce, and other treats.
“So, they went to Stater Brothers and bought some rotisserie chicken and sardines and tomato sauce, apples, peanut butter â all kinds of stuff,” Arbid described.
“They made a feast for him.”
It worked. The bear emerged within minutes, tripping the trap door as planned.
Safe Release into the Wild
Once trapped, the adorable bear was transported to Angeles National Forest. Officials performed a welfare check, took measurements, and fitted the bear with a GPS collar before releasing him safely just after midnight.
Photos shared by the CDFW captured the bearâs face peeking out from under the house before it entered the trap.
Warning to Residents
With the bear safely relocated, the crawlspace was secured to prevent future incidents.
The CDFW reminded residents living near bear habitats to close crawlspaces with bear-proof material, especially before winter, to avoid damage and unwanted denning.
RELATED TOPICS: Animals | California | Rescues
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