Five orphaned black bear cubs released in fall 2025 in Northern California have successfully hibernated and emerged healthy this spring, according to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. - The cubs were rescued from Nevada County, El Dorado County, and Calaveras County.
- They were rehabilitated at Sonoma County Wildlife Rescue and San Diego Humane Society's Ramona Wildlife Center. - The fall release, an experimental approach, aims to reduce human-wildlife conflict and rehabilitation costs.
- GPS collar data confirmed all bears established dens, hibernated, and reemerged in spring. Wildlife officials say the success highlights the resilience of bears and the value of wildlife rehabilitation in conservation.