A massive and by the looks of it, well-fed black bear was seen strolling through the streets of California. Let’s look at some black bear behaviors and why he might have come for his visit. Oh, and the video of course.
Surprise Visitor
The neighborhood residents in Sierra Madre, California must have had the fright of their lives when they saw this outsider casually strolling through their streets! Just imagine you’re on your way to your car just like any other day. And then, WOAH, a massive black bear appears in your driveway!
Comfortable Bear
In the video, we see the humongous black bear looking very comfortable strolling through the urban environment of California. Casually strolling past the houses like he owns the place!
Chunky Boy
It is clear that this bear has been enjoying the fruits of full trashcans in the suburbs! He might have even given some pet food, bird feeders, or fruit trees a go. Bears have a strong sense of smell, so it is possible that the smells attracted him to the neighborhood.
Why Visit A Residential Area?
Bears wander into residential areas if they are foraging for food. Even more likely so if they’ve received human food in the vicinity before. Which is a dangerous position to be in! Take away message: don’t feed bears!
Stay Clear!
Even though this bear is not really in the wild, it is still a wild animal! And it is advised to stay at least 100 yards away. If you spot a bear, or any wild animal, in a residential area it is best to call local authorities to handle the situation.
No Harm Done
As far as we know, no pets or humans were harmed during this black bear’s stroll through Sierra Madre. Unfortunately, we also don’t know if he is still roaming the streets or whether he found his way home to the wild again.
Bear On A Stroll
Watch the video taken by @stephaniekayfilms here!
Be Prepared
If you live in a bear country, it is crucial to always be prepared! You can take precautions around your home like making sure all food is kept inside, your trash is secured and fallen fruit is picked up around trees. It is also important to educate yourself and your family on how to react when a bear is in the vicinity.
Black Bear Diet
These large animals are omnivores, and their diet consists of fruits, nuts, small mammals, insects, and plants. As we mentioned earlier, these animals also eat from human garbage, bird feeders, and pet food.
Black Bear Size
As with most animals, the males are normally larger than females. These bears weigh between 150 and 600 pounds, and when standing on their hind legs reach between 5 to 7 feet tall.
Danger To Humans
Black bears tend to avoid contact with humans, and attacks on humans are rare. However, they can react aggressively when feeling threatened or protecting their cubs. So remember, give these animals space and don’t approach them.
Where Are They Found In North America?
These large mammals are found in forests across North America, from Canada all the way to Mexico! In other words, they inhabit 40 of the 50 United States. Mostly in densely wooded areas, but can be seen in swamps, mountains, and the occasional urban area.
How Old Do They Get?
On average, black bears live around 18 years in the wild. Where in captivity, they can live as long as 30 years! This is mostly due to the lack of predators and easy access to food reducing their risks to survival.
Hibernation
They enter a type of hibernation called torpor during the colder winter months. In this state, their metabolism slows down to reduce energy usage and they survive on stored body fat. The bear in the video was most likely preparing for the winter by the looks of his size.
Communication
Image by Stephanie Le Blanc on Unslpash.
Black bears communicate with each other through sounds like grunts, growls, and huffs. They also use body language to let each other know how they feel, and scent marking to mark their territory.
How Can I Prevent Bears From Coming To My Home?
Although these wild animals will do as they please, here are a couple of precautions you can take to minimize the chance of them coming to your home.
- Place trash in bear-resistant containers
- Remove bird feeders
- Clean barbecue grills
- Store pet food indoors
- Pick ripe fruit from trees and pick up the fallen fruit on the ground
What Should I Do If I See A Black Bear In The Wild?
We sure hope you are at a safe distance if this happens! And these tips are by no means guaranteed to keep you safe, but might help:
- Stay calm!
- Make yourself look bigger
- Speak in a firm voice
- Back away slowly
- Never turn your back!
Difference Between A Black Bear & A Brown Bear
Black bears have shorter claws, a straight facial profile, and no shoulder hump. Where brown bears, or grizzlies, have longer claes, a dished facial profile, and a prominent shoulder hump.
So, A Black Bear Strolling Through The Streets In California
The bear’s stroll through California is a reminder that nature knows no bounds and that these wild, big bears go where they want when they want! To keep them, and yourself, safe remember to keep at least 100 yards away from them and alert local authorities to handle the situation.
For More On Bears
- The Largest Brown Bear Recorded (1,500 lb)
- Can You Spot the Massive Grizzly Bear Charging at Hikers in Glacier National Park?
- Bear Arrives At Campsite And Steals Food While People Hide Inside Tent
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