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.
“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.
