Bear captured in Chatsworth, California, came from Angeles National Forest

A bear was captured Tuesday in a northwest Los Angeles neighborhood after wandering into the San Fernando Valley for a day.

The adult black bear was tranquilized around 11 a.m. local time in Chatsworth after climbing a tree in an industrial area of the neighborhood, according to California Department of Fish and Wildlife officials. Local television stations reported that the action drew a small crowd.

The department borrowed mats from a local gymnasium to ensure the bear fell safely.

The bear was first spotted near the Chatsworth courthouse around 10 a.m. Monday, according to KTLA. The department set a bear trap in the nearby Northridge neighborhood that evening.

California Fish and Wildlife told USA TODAY the bear was relocated to more suitable habitat in the Angeles National Forest.

“It’s entirely possible that with the activity that’s going on today, it’s an unpleasant experience and an unpleasant memory for that animal,” said Tim Daly, a Fish and Wildlife spokesman. “It may be better to stay out of this in the wild, but we won’t know until we continue to monitor that collar and see where it goes.”

Chatsworth Bear Roams Angeles National Forest

Tuesday’s encounter was not the first time Fish and Wildlife officials have captured the bear.

The bear was captured and tagged on May 31 in the town of Claremont, about 60 miles (96 km) east of Chatsworth. The bear was released into the Angeles National Forest and tracked west toward Malibu before turning back toward Chatsworth.

Daly said the bear was likely moving to find food, water or shelter, and the department will likely keep a closer eye on the bear.

“We’ll probably be a little more curious than other bears to see what this one does,” Daly said.

What to do if you encounter a black bear

Bear attacks are rare, according to the National Parks Service, because bears that approach people are primarily interested in protecting their food, cubs or space.

The NPS advises people who encounter a black bear to remain calm and speak in a low, controlled voice so as not to provoke the bear.

If a black bear attacks, the Service recommends not playing dead and fighting back. If possible, try to get to a safe place.