A massive black bear, weighing over 500 pounds, was finally removed from beneath a home in Altadena after living there for 37 days.
The bear had taken up residence under the house of Ken Johnson, causing significant damage to the property, including twisting gas lines and damaging heating ducts.
Johnson initially sought help from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, but their attempts using air horns and paintball guns were unsuccessful. He then turned to the BEAR League, a nonprofit organization specializing in human-bear interactions. On Tuesday, BEAR League responders, including Scott, an experienced member, crawled under the house and successfully encouraged the bear to leave within 20 minutes. According to PEOPLE, the bear was coaxed out using loud noises and an electric “unwelcome” mat was placed to prevent its return.
The bear had been living under the home since November 30, causing Johnson to shut off his gas service due to safety concerns. Johnson, who had lost his job following the Eaton wildfire, created a GoFundMe page to raise funds for repairs, which have already reached $2,112. The damage caused by the bear has been a financial burden for Johnson, who described the situation as “unsettling.”
Despite the bear’s removal, it attempted to return once more but was deterred by the electric mat. Johnson expressed relief at the bear’s eviction, comparing it to the end of an unwelcome party. The BEAR League’s quick action brought a resolution to the situation, which had left Johnson feeling abandoned by state wildlife officials.
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