Bear Sightings on the Rise, Public Reminded to Respect Wildlife

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY, Calif. (KEYT) - Some bear sightings in the local foothills are in areas where the public lives and hangs out, reminding us that we are sharing the space with local wild animals.

A California Brown Bear, which actually has black fur as some do, was strolling along Torito Road in the Montecito area near Toro Canyon.

Video taken by a resident Heather Sage showed the bear looking very healthy.

It was in a neighborhood, but hikers say they are not uncommon on the trails a little higher up and nearby.

Off of Highway 154, at Cold Spring Tavern, a mama bear was spotted with two cubs on the property by a family driving through for lunch.

Those who go to the historic stagecoach stop restaurant have reported seeing a bear in the area several times before.

It's not known if this bear is that bear, possibly with a larger family now.

For those who got a glimpse, including Jaimie Herrera who took some pictures, the scene was playful for the cubs, but the mom was very watchful and protective.