A homeowner in Altadena, California, received a startling surprise in late 2025 when he discovered a large, uninvited guest had taken up residence beneath his property. The resident found that a black bear had moved into the crawl space under his house, prompting a call to local authorities for assistance.
An Unwelcome Housemate
The situation came to light on December 1, 2025, when the homeowner realized the bear was living in the confined space under the structure. Photographic evidence from the scene, filed by The Associated Press, shows the bear lying inside the dark crawl space. The animal had effectively rolled out its own "unwelcome" mat, settling in for what it likely intended to be a long stay.
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of human-wildlife interaction in regions where urban sprawl meets natural habitats. Bears and other large animals are increasingly found in residential areas as they search for food and shelter.
Managing the Situation
Local wildlife officials were summoned to address the potentially dangerous scenario. Safely removing a bear from such a confined area requires specialized expertise to ensure neither the animal nor the residents are harmed. The process typically involves assessing the bear's health and behavior before attempting any relocation efforts.
While the specific outcome for this particular bear was not detailed in the initial report, such situations generally end with the animal being tranquilized and relocated to a more suitable, remote habitat far from human dwellings.
A Reminder for Homeowners
This event serves as a critical reminder for homeowners, particularly in bear-prone regions like parts of California and many areas across Canada, to secure their properties. Experts recommend sealing off potential entry points under decks, porches, and crawl spaces to prevent wildlife from seeking shelter there.
Removing attractants like garbage, pet food, and bird feeders is also essential in deterring bears from approaching homes in the first place. Proactive measures can prevent stressful and dangerous encounters for both people and animals.
