Orphaned Bear Cubs From Monrovia Reach Major Milestone At San Diego Humane Society

RAMONA, CA — Two orphaned black bear cubs rescued from Monrovia have reached a major milestone after moving into an outdoor habitat at San Diego Humane Society's Ramona Wildlife Center.

The brothers, now about 4 months old, are living in a specialized den area funded by a grant from the Ellen Browning Scripps Foundation. The habitat includes live-edge wood from a Ramona sawmill.

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Center officials said the cubs will be introduced to a larger habitat, with continued access to the den, once they acclimate to their new surroundings.

"Moving outside is a big step," said Autumn Welch, wildlife operations manager at San Diego Humane Society. "The cubs are gaining confidence, exploring and learning the skills they'll need to survive on their own."

The cubs arrived at the center March 15 after the California Department of Fish and Wildlife euthanized their mother following two public safety incidents in Monrovia.

Since then, the organization's Project Wildlife team has provided specialized care with the ultimate goal of releasing the bears back into the wild.

• Also see: 2 Orphaned Bear Cubs Sent To Ramona Wildlife Center After Mother Euthanized

To ensure the cubs do not become too accustomed to human contact, staff members wore bear masks and animal furs treated with natural scents during feedings. Staff members crawled into the habitat to mimic the movements of a mother bear.

Caretakers also added native plants, including mulberry and pine, to mimic nature and encourage exploration.

The cubs, who were 2 to 3 months old when they arrived, have transitioned from formula to gruel and solid foods, including fruit and native plants, according to the organization.

San Diego Humane Society is seeking public donations to help cover the cost of caring for the cubs. Donations can be made at sdhumane.org/monroviabears.