Young Black Bear Tranquilized After Strolling Through Pismo Beach

Residents of Pismo Beach were surprised Monday when a young black bear was spotted wandering through parts of the city, including Price Street and the beach.

The bear’s unexpected trek prompted a coordinated response from local police, the California Highway Patrol (CHP), Pismo Beach Police, and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), culminating in its safe capture and relocation.

The California Highway Patrol temporarily shut down the Highway 101 offramp at Hinds Avenue as part of the effort to track and secure the bear. The young bear was ultimately found perched up a tree near the busy roadway. A state biologist from CDFW tranquilized the bear and carefully prepared it for transport.

Bear Taken to Rehabilitation Facility

The young bear was transported to a wildlife rehabilitation facility for evaluation. Officials report that if the bear is found to be free of injuries following sedation, it will be released into a suitable habitat.

However, concerns remain over a possible second bear in the area, believed to be the mother of the yearling. Wildlife officers are actively monitoring the situation, though no sightings of the mother bear have been confirmed.

Public Asked to Stay Alert

The Pismo Beach Police Department reported multiple sightings of the bear across the city on Monday. Thankfully, no injuries occurred during the operation to secure the animal. Authorities are encouraging residents to report any sightings of a second bear to law enforcement immediately.

“Bear sightings were reported yesterday throughout the city. With the assistance of Fish and Wildlife, along with CHP, the bear was able to be secured for relocation,” stated the Pismo Beach Police Department.

 

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