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Rescued Black Bear Cub Thrives in El Dorado County Wildlife Rehab, Faces Future Release Decision

From Near Death to New Beginnings—Young Bear Cub’s Journey Nears a Turning Point in the Sierra Foothills

Cris Alarcon by Cris Alarcon
April 20, 2025
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Rescued Black Bear Cub Thrives in El Dorado County Wildlife Rehab, Faces Future Release Decision

potential release back into the wild

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By Cris Alarcon, InEDC Writer.
PLACERVILLE, Calif. (April 20, 2025) — A young black bear cub found alone and critically ill in El Dorado County last December is now thriving under the care of wildlife experts, marking a heartening turnaround in a story that began with uncertainty and concern.

Discovered near Coloma on December 9, 2024, the cub—now known as Cub 24-3926—was emaciated, dehydrated, and suffering from severe skin and ear infections. He was immediately taken to Gold Country Wildlife Rescue (GCWR) in Auburn, where staff initiated intensive treatment.

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“At this time, the cub’s health remains very delicate,” GCWR said in a December 2024 statement. “A successful outcome is not guaranteed… but we are committed to doing everything possible for him.”

Over the weeks that followed, the cub began to stabilize. Though GCWR limited human interaction to preserve his wild instincts, the animal’s personality slowly began to emerge. He curiously explored his enclosure, splashed in a kiddie pool, and tested out a hammock made from retired firehoses—all part of his enrichment program designed to build physical strength and mental stimulation.

In a major milestone, Cub 24-3926 was moved in March to “Summit University,” GCWR’s expansive outdoor rehabilitation space specifically designed for black bears. The controlled environment gives recovering cubs a safe, naturalistic setting to adapt to wild conditions—complete with fresh air, scent-based enrichment, and indirect exposure to other bears.

“Cub 24-3926 explored his new space briefly before settling into his culvert den, while his new neighbors were seen sniffing curiously along the shared walls,”

the organization shared in a March 25 social media post.

The facility’s hands-off approach is key to preparing cubs for the wild. “He remained curious but cautious—just as a wild bear should be,” said one GCWR volunteer familiar with the cub’s progress.

The final decision about the cub’s future rests with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). Wildlife officials will assess whether the bear can safely return to his natural habitat or must be placed in a long-term sanctuary. Rehabilitation goals include physical health, appropriate fear of humans, and demonstrated survival behavior such as foraging and denning.

If released, the bear will join a growing number of successfully rehabilitated cubs returned to California’s wilderness through collaborative efforts between GCWR and CDFW.

“Each bear is unique, and we take great care to evaluate their progress individually,”

a spokesperson for CDFW stated.

“Our goal is always to give these animals the best possible chance at a wild, self-sustaining life.”

For more information, visit Gold Country Wildlife Rescue.

Cris Alarcon

Cris Alarcon

Former Member: Executive Board of Directors, Treasurer, Boys & Girl Club of El Dorado County Western Slope. - Former Member: Board of Directors, Treasurer, Food Bank of El Dorado County. - Opening Team Dealer at Red Hawk Casino - Retried EDC Elections Department Inspector. - Youngest Charter Member of the Hangtown Kennel Club. - Political Strategist and Campaign Manager.

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© 2023 Placerville Newswire Commentary is produced by the Placerville Newswire, a private service focusing on Placerville Local Area issues. All conclusions expressed in this publication should be understood to be solely those of the author(s). You may find us in El Dorado County Placerville, CA 95667

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© 2023 Placerville Newswire Commentary is produced by the Placerville Newswire, a private service focusing on Placerville Local Area issues. All conclusions expressed in this publication should be understood to be solely those of the author(s). You may find us in El Dorado County Placerville, CA 95667