L.A. County Arboretum in Arcadia closed after mother bear, cubs spotted on grounds.
A pregnant mother bear has wandered into the gates of a Los Angeles County Arboretum, authorities said. The bear, known only as “Bear One,” was likely on the grounds of the Arboretum at the time of the incident, according to Arboretum director Michael Crespi.
“She went in and stayed in there as far as we know for a few days,” Crespi told KTLA-TV.
Arboretum staff called wildlife officials, who arrived at around 3:30 p.m. and took the bear into custody. She was released a short time later at a private wildlife facility.
LA County Arboretum is a popular tourist destination in Arcadia, a quiet enclave about 45 miles north of downtown Los Angeles. The Arboretum, founded in 1867, is home to a variety of rare plants, trees and other species.
Wildlife officials at the Arboretum said they had received several reports that bears were on the grounds. It remains unclear how many bears still roam the Arboretum grounds, but Crespi said the last such report occurred in March.
No injuries have been reported, according to a statement from the California Department of Wildlife.
The Los Angeles Zoo and Zoo of the Pacific received Bear One. Officials there were working on her care and will be communicating with wildlife officials and responding to any future concerns, zoo officials said in a statement.
Bear One’s whereabouts sparked fears of a potential attack on visitors, who often flock to the Arboretum to view the park’s expansive lawns, wildflower displays and walking paths.
“We are very saddened by this event but remain hopeful of a positive outcome,” said Kevin Beattie, a spokesman for the Arboretum. “We have been coordinating with all relevant authorities to ensure the safety of our guests and staff and to ensure that our facilities and grounds are in order for the public to