Living With Bears Information Session – Steve Searles “the Bear Whisperer”
Located in the foothills of Los Angeles County, LCF residents have a higher likelihood of encountering wildlife, including bears. The City recognizes that living alongside bears can cause stressful situations. While most bears generally avoid human contact, it is important to remember that bears are wild animals and the City has no control over them — this falls under the jurisdiction of The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW).
The resources below are compiled from information provided by the CDFW and the Pasadena Humane Society. Additional details are available on the CDFW and Pasadena Humane Society websites.
What can you do?
The City would like to remind residents of the following tips to keep themselves, families and homes safe from bears.
Tips to discourage bears from visiting your property
- Do not put out trash cans the night before pick up.
- Store garbage cans in a garage or closed shed.
- Keep garbage cans clean. Deodorize and disinfect them with bleach or ammonia.
- Promptly collect fruit that falls from trees. Harvest fruit as soon as it’s ripe.
- Remove plants that attract bears, including dogwood.
- Eliminate bird feeders during spring and summer when there are natural foods available for birds.
- Eliminate compost piles.
- Keep barbecue grills clean and free of drippings.
- Consider purchasing bear spray and keep it next to your front and/or back door.
If you Encounter a Bear:
- Stand and face the bear directly. Never run away from or approach him.
- Make yourself look as big as possibly by spreading your arms, or better yet, a coat.
- Make as much noise as possible by yelling, banging pots and pans, or using other noisemaking devices.
- In the very rate case that a black bear does attack you, fight back (don’t play dead).
- After the bear leaves, remove whatever attracted him to the location.
- If you see a bear in your yard, leave him alone until he leaves. Supervise your pet an do not let your dog interact with him.
- Be especially cautious if you see a female with cubs; never place yourself between a mother and her cub.s further, fight back. Don’t play dead.
On January 10, 2023, the City of La Cañada Flintridge partnered with the CDFW to provide a virtual presentation entitled “Living with Black Bears in Southern California.” This hour-long session includes important information on living in close proximity to bears.
View on YouTube for specific topic timestamps.
For More Information:
If you need immediate assistance, contact the Crescenta Valley Sheriff’s Station at (818) 248-3464 or Pasadena Humane at (626) 792-7151.
For more information on wildlife safety, visit wildlife.ca.gov.
To report a wildlife incident, visit https://apps.wildlife.ca.gov/wir/incident/create.
If a bear is acting threatening or is sick/injured, call or text (626) 344-1129
