A mother bear has been seen entering an open garage. Residents are advised to keep their distance. Photo Courtesy Los Alamos Animal Control

BY MAIRE O’NEILL
maire@losalamosreporter.com

Los Alamos County issued a wildlife alert early Monday afternoon for a mother bear and her three cubs that have been wandering around Barranca Mesa for the last few days. The alert was for the area from Barranca Road through Los Pueblos and Totavi. It noted that the mother bear is not afraid of people.

“Do not approach any bear. Shelter in your homes until further notice. Do not call 911 regarding these bears unless someone is in immediate danger,” the alert said.

An update at 3:27 p.m. said Barranca Mesa residents, Game and Fish officers along with LAPD Animal Control continue to respond to concerns regarding the mother bear and her three cubs.

“This may take time, and your assistance is needed. The mother bear is not afraid of people. Please remove all food sources from the bears. Close garage doors. Bring in trash cans. Take down bird feeders. If you decide to be outdoors, please be vigilant to bear activity. If you see a bear, go inside. Do not stay in the area to observe the bears. Please do not call 911 for bears unless someone is in immediate danger,” the update stated.