California's black bear population is thriving, with experts estimating roughly 60,000 statewide. Of the world's eight bear species, this is the only one with a growing population, exceeding all other species combined. In recent years, bears have expanded their range from remote mountains into suburbs, blurring the line between city and wilderness.

Last year, the state's Department of Fish and Wildlife recorded 2,735 calls and reports about black bears, up from 425 a decade prior. Kathryn Barger, a Los Angeles County supervisor, noted that while living alongside wildlife is a way of life in foothill communities, bears are coming into residential neighborhoods more frequently. Researchers suggest a warming climate and wildfires are driving bears into human habitats.

Brian Gordon, who lives in Monrovia, Calif., described the experience as a.