Black Bear Family's Rare Journey to Santa Monica Mountains

A New Family in Topanga Canyon

• 🐻 A mama black bear, identified as BB14, and her three cubs have settled in a remote part of Topanga Canyon in the Santa Monica Mountains.
• 🏞️ This rare occurrence has generated excitement and pride among local residents and hikers, who are observing the new neighbors from a safe distance.

BB14's Adventurous Travels

• 🗺️ BB14 is described as an adventurous bear, having traveled extensively throughout LA County.
• 📍 She was initially captured and fitted with a GPS collar in Claremont in 2024, then released into the Angeles National Forest.
• ⛰️ Her journey included sightings in the Simi Hills and Chatsworth before she eventually found a home in Topanga Canyon.

From Hibernation to Cubs

• 🌲 Sometime last year, BB14 stopped traveling and began hibernating, giving birth to her three cubs in March.
• 🐾 The cubs, consisting of two males and one female, were confirmed by park officials when they visited the den.
• ☀️ The family began leaving their den in April, with the first confirmed sighting in Topanga Canyon occurring in May.

Community and Wildlife Safety

• 💬 While there's no sign of the family currently, residents are encouraged to report any sightings of the cubs or mama bear using an online wildlife tracking system.
• 🍎 Wildlife experts advise on managing potential attractants like garbage and food to ensure the safety of both the bears and the community.