550-Pound Black Bear Safely Evicted From Altadena Home After Month-Long Stay

Bear Eviction in Altadena

• 🐻 A 550-pound California black bear, which had been living under an Altadena home for over a month, has been safely removed.
• ⏱️ The eviction process, led by a nonprofit bear rescue group from Lake Tahoe, took approximately 10 minutes.
• 💥 Loud paintball bursts were used to startle the bear, prompting it to leave the crawlspace unharmed.

Homeowner's Frustration and Failed Attempts

• 🏠 Homeowner John Johnson had tried various methods for over a month to remove the bear himself, including error horns, ammonia, and motion lights, all without success.
• ⚠️ The California Department of Fish and Wildlife attempted removal twice, but after a failed trapping attempt (capturing a different bear), they pulled their resources, leaving Johnson without viable options.
• 🛠️ Following the eviction, the rescue group installed an electric deterrent in the crawlspace to prevent the bear's return.

Bear's Return and Property Damage

• 📹 Despite the deterrent, the bear returned the night after its eviction, causing further distress and damage.
• 🏚️ The bear's presence resulted in extensive damage to the home's interior, with items ripped up and gas lines potentially compromised.
• 😟 The homeowner expressed fear about the bear potentially breaking into the house after being unable to access the crawlspace.

Expert Intervention

• 🌲 The bear rescue group specializes in removing bears from under homes before hibernation, boasting 30 years of experience with black bears.
• 💡 Their expertise is crucial in understanding what methods are effective for dealing with such situations.