In early May 2025, the San Diego Humane Society took in one of the youngest black bear cubs ever cared for by their wildlife rehabilitation team. The tiny cub, no older than a few weeks, was found abandoned in a remote area near Cleveland National Forest. The story of this fragile animal’s rescue and recovery highlights the critical role the San Diego Humane Society plays in wildlife care.
Discovery and Rescue of Black Bear Cub
The cub was discovered by a hiker who noticed the animal wandering alone, crying softly in the dense brush. Concerned for its safety, the hiker called the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). The CDFW team quickly assessed the situation and contacted the San Diego Humane Society’s Wildlife Rehabilitation Center for assistance.
Due to the cub’s very young age and obvious distress, the Humane Society arranged a safe transfer to their facility. The cub weighed only about two pounds — much smaller than the typical 8–10 pounds of a black bear cub at this age. Wildlife experts suspected the cub was separated from its mother, a critical and dangerous situation for a bear so young.
Immediate Care and Challenges
Once at the San Diego Humane Society, veterinary staff and wildlife specialists began round-the-clock care. The first priority was to stabilize the cub’s health. The team performed a full physical exam, finding the cub dehydrated and underweight. Because the cub was too young to eat solid food, the staff prepared a special formula designed to mimic bear mother’s milk.
San Diego Humane Society’s wildlife rehabilitation team has years of experience with orphaned and injured animals, but caring for such a tiny bear required constant attention. The cub needed feeding every two hours, including overnight, and a warm, safe environment that replicated its natural den.
“We have to make sure the cub stays warm and comfortable,” said the lead wildlife rehabilitator. “The transition from the wild to our care is very stressful for these animals, especially at this early stage of life.”
Progress and Development
Over the following weeks, the cub slowly gained weight and strength. The team used enrichment techniques to encourage natural behaviors, such as climbing small trees and foraging for safe foods. As the cub matured, the caregivers gradually introduced it to a larger enclosure with natural elements to prepare for eventual release.
The Humane Society works closely with CDFW to monitor the cub’s health and development. Once the bear reaches a certain age and weight, they plan to release it back into its natural habitat, ideally near the location where it was found.
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Why This Matters
Black bear cubs separated from their mothers face high risks. Without proper nutrition and protection, survival chances are low. The San Diego Humane Society’s intervention increased this cub’s chances significantly.
Their work with wildlife is part of a larger commitment to protecting local ecosystems. San Diego County is home to various wildlife species, including the black bear, which plays a role in maintaining balance in forest habitats.
Community Involvement
The story of this cub has sparked local interest and support. Residents have donated funds and supplies to the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center. The Humane Society also uses cases like this to educate the public about how to respond when encountering wildlife in distress.
People are urged not to approach or try to care for wild animals themselves but to contact authorities or wildlife experts immediately. Quick and professional intervention can make the difference between life and death for animals like this cub.
To support the cub’s care and other wildlife efforts, visit sdhumane.org/wildlife.
