First-ever black bear captured and collared in Santa Monica Mountains.
Researchers have captured and radio-collared a 210-pound black bear in the Santa Monica Mountains near Los Angeles for the first time ever. The bear, named BB-12, was caught in a natural area south of U.S. Route 101 on the western end of the range. BB-12 is estimated to be about 3 or 4 years old and is likely the only bear in the area. The researchers believe he may have been living in the mountains for almost two years. The bear was given a physical exam and outfitted with a GPS radio collar around its neck to study its movements and interactions with other large carnivores in the area.