Biologist Launched Private Bear-Proofing Service
A former state wildlife expert opened a new company to help California residents secure their homes from local bears.
Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Wildlife
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Former California Department of Fish and Wildlife biologist Jessica West has launched Wild Neighbor, a private venture offering property bear-proofing. The business aims to fill a void in public services following recent budget cuts to wildlife conflict mitigation programs in Southern California.
Why it matters
Securing residential properties helps prevent black bears from accessing human food, a behavior that often leads to bears being euthanized. This private service model emerges as communities struggle with increased human-wildlife conflict.
Jessica West offers property assessments for $150, while the installation of electric deterrent equipment typically ranges between $350 and $900.
The players
Jessica West
She is a biologist who spent five years working for the California Department of Fish and Wildlife before founding Wild Neighbor.
California Department of Fish and Wildlife
This state agency manages wildlife resources and provides public conflict resolution services.
The details
Wild Neighbor provides professional consultations for securing trash areas and crawl spaces in neighborhoods such as Altadena, Sierra Madre, Monrovia, Encino, and Tarzana. Clients are advised to install measures like electric wiring and specialized mats to deter bear intrusions, especially as animals forage more actively before winter.
Timeline
2023: California documented its first human death caused by a black bear.
2024: A Laist podcast report detailed recent bear-related injuries.
Fall to early winter: Local black bears significantly increase their food intake in preparation for the winter months.
Culture Shift
The emergence of private bear-proofing services signals a shift in how Californians manage wildlife coexistence as public sector resources shrink. This trend highlights a move toward individualized responsibility in areas where human-wildlife contact has become a chronic issue.
Residents in high-activity areas can now hire professional consultants to secure their homes, potentially reducing the risk of bears entering residential spaces. This service offers a practical pathway for homeowners to proactively manage their safety rather than relying on limited state resources.
The takeaway
Proactive property management, such as securing trash and installing deterrents, is currently the most effective way to prevent bears from habituating to human neighborhoods. Investing in these professional assessments can reduce the likelihood of dangerous interactions before bears enter hibernation.
Further reading
Learn more about local fauna management by visiting California Wildlife.
More information
To find official guidance or report bear sightings or conflict, visit the state portal.
Source note: This article includes information reported by LAist.
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