500-Pound Bear Takes Up Residence Under Altadena Home; State Wildlife Officials Investigating

Bear Occupies Altadena Crawlspace

• 🐻 A 500-pound black bear has made its den in the crawl space beneath a home in Altadena.
• 🏠 The homeowner, Ken Johnson, discovered the bear over a week ago and has been seeking assistance.
• 📹 Surveillance footage shows the bear appearing daily, growing bolder and settling deeper under the house.

Homeowner's Frustration and Wildlife Response

• 📞 Johnson contacted the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (DFW) multiple times but felt his concerns were not being addressed due to limited field teams.
• ⚠️ Experts warned that Johnson considering taking matters into his own hands could have been dangerous for both him and the bear.
• 🗓️ After days of pressure, state wildlife officials have confirmed they are escalating the case and will investigate the situation.

Next Steps for Relocation or Removal

• 🔬 Wildlife experts aim to determine if the bear can be safely relocated or if other methods are needed to encourage it to leave before winter hibernation.
• 🏡 Johnson is eager for a resolution, wanting his home back and answers regarding the delay in official response.
• 🚨 Officials are reminding neighbors not to approach the bear, emphasizing the need for a safe and effective solution.