A mother black bear and her two cubs got an unexpected soak this weekend after becoming trapped in a water tank near Claremont Wilderness Park in La Verne, California.
Runners on the park’s 5-Mile Loop Trail heard what sounded like howling coming from inside a fire department water tank on Saturday. When they climbed up to investigate, they found the bear family struggling to keep their heads above the partially filled tank — one set of eyes staring back just a few feet away.
One cub had already managed to escape and was found safe in a nearby tree before help arrived. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife and La Verne Fire Department responded, draining the tank to keep the mother and remaining cub from going under. Crews then widened an opening at the top and lowered a ladder, giving the bears a way to climb out and return to the wild.
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All three bears are reported safe. Officials say the tank is now being secured to prevent future wildlife mishaps.
Encounters like this are a reminder that as temperatures climb across Southern California, animals often seek out water sources — sometimes in risky places—to cool off and stay hydrated.
What To Do If You Encounter Wildlife in Distress
- Keep your distance. Even a stressed animal can be unpredictable, so observe from a safe spot rather than approaching directly.
- Call the experts. Contact local wildlife officials or animal control instead of attempting a rescue yourself.
- Avoid loud noises or sudden movements that could startle the animal further.
- Don’t block escape routes. Give the animal space to leave on its own if possible.
- Report unsecured water tanks, pools or wells in wildlife-heavy areas to prevent future incidents.