Wild Black Bear Briefly Enters California Zoo, Interacts With Captive Bears

A young wild American black bear recently made an unexpected visit to the Sequoia Park Zoo in Eureka, California, where it interacted peacefully with the zoo's resident bears through the enclosure fencing. Zoo staff discovered the bear during a morning inspection before opening, and despite the zoo's perimeter fence remaining intact, officials believe the bear climbed a tree to gain access. The bear was described as curious and non-aggressive, showing interest in the captive bears and their toys. Authorities, including the Eureka Police Department and California Department of Fish and Wildlife, were called to assist in safely coaxing the bear back into the woods via a service gate without incident. This unusual event highlighted the zoo's emergency protocols, which were executed successfully to ensure safety for both the animals and the bear. The story underscores the presence of black bears in California and the importance of coexisting responsibly with wildlife.