Black bear sighted in Whiting Woods

Glendale city officials recently issued an advisory warning residents of a black bear repeatedly sighted in the Whiting Woods neighborhood.

The bear, described as medium-sized, has been spotted on El Lado Drive, as well as Mesa Lila and Whiting Woods roads, since mid-June.

Though city officials say the mere sighting of a bear alone “is not always a cause for concern,” they advised calling 911 if in immediate danger. In addition, they noted that the Pasadena Humane Society and the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals do not tranquilize, trap or capture bears that are otherwise healthy.

Officials are advising that anyone seeing a bear inside a home should not approach it and not block exits the bear may use to escape. If the animal is in a backyard, the witness should keep a safe distance and bang on pots and pans to encourage the bear to leave.

Though black bears often wander into neighborhoods searching for food, some steps are advisable to discourage them from making repeat visits, officials said.

They include not putting out trash cans the night before pickup; storing garbage cans in a garage or closed shed; keeping garbage cans clean by deodorizing and disinfecting; quickly collecting fruit fallen from trees; removing plants that bears enjoy, such as ones with berries; keeping barbeque grills clean and free of drippings; and not leaving food for cats or birds outside.

If residents see bears or want additional information, they can call the regional office of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife at (858) 467-4201.

Glendale police also have a dedicated bear-safety page on their website, www.ci.glendale.ca.us/police.