Unusual Urban Encounter Caught on Video: Residents Stunned as a Huge Bear Takes a Leisurely Stroll in Los Angeles
A Los Angeles neighborhood recently witnessed an extraordinary sight as a massive bear roamed freely on sidewalks and streets. The remarkable video footage was recorded in Arcadia, California, a city located approximately 20 miles northeast of central LA, on Friday.
Local experts reveal that bear sightings have been growing increasingly frequent in the area, prompting authorities to issue warnings to residents about taking necessary precautions, particularly as the weather gets hotter.
Although the specific identity of the bear in the video remains unknown, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife reports that the black bear population has experienced a significant surge. Statewide, the bear population now stands at an estimated 30,000 to 40,000, a remarkable increase compared to the estimated 10,000 bears recorded just four decades ago in 1983.
In a captivating 23-second video, the large bear can be seen leisurely roaming through the residential neighborhood, undisturbed by any human presence.
Over the weekend, social media users flooded the comments section with expressions of awe and astonishment, sharing their reactions to the remarkable close encounter.
One user wrote: “Cool dude!! Leave him alone and he’ll do the same..learn to live in harmony with our wildlife.”
Another commented: “OF COURSE it’s casually roaming! Who is going to stop it. WOW, what a beautiful creature!.”
One said: “I’ve seen more bears in the foothills than I ever have while hiking.”
Highland Oaks Drive resides within the scenic foothills of the Angeles National Forest, an expansive wooded area spanning around 700,000 acres.
Authorities advise residents to maintain a state of heightened awareness, safeguarding their homes by ensuring pet food is kept indoors and securing trash cans. These precautions aim to prevent any potential encounters with wildlife that could pose a risk to safety.
Image Credit: Getty