Auburn is the latest city in Placer County to report bear sightings in residential areas. The Auburn Police Department recently confirmed that a mother bear and her two cubs were seen near Lincoln Way and Russell Road.
This is the fourth city in the county to see such activity recently. Similar reports came out of Lincoln on August 7, following earlier incidents in Roseville and Rocklin. The Auburn sighting is unique as it involves a group of bears traveling together rather than a solitary animal.
Local authorities are reminding residents to remain alert. Property owners should secure garbage, recycle bins, and food sources to avoid attracting wildlife. Pets should be brought inside if bears are near the area.
Wildlife experts note that black bears enter a stage called hyperphagia between June and August. During this period, they consume vast amounts of calories to build fat for the winter months. An adult bear may eat over 20,000 calories in a single day, often causing them to wander outside their usual range in search of food. If you face an immediate threat to safety or property, contact 911 or the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.