Black Bear BB-12 Killed While Crossing 101 On Conejo Grade

Friday July 21, 2023

(Photos courtesy NPS)

     Updated--He was known as BB-12, the first California black bear to be captured and radio-collared in the Santa Monica Mountains.

     And now he's dead.

     He was struck and killed by a vehicle while crossing the 101 Freeway on the Conejo Grade Thursday night.

     A motorist reported the incident and a CHP officer retrieved the remains and took them to the NPS freezer facility.

     Scientists say they believe that BB-12 had crossed major roadways at least five times before the fateful sixth attempt Thursday night.

     National Park Service biologists believed the 210 pound bear was the only bear who currently made the Santa Monica Mountains home although there have been a couple of previous sightings of black bears in the Santa Monica Mountains years ago.

     He may be the young black bear that was spotted in July of 2021 lumbering along Reno Road in Newbury Park.

     The bear was also been seen roaming from Point Mugu State Park to Malibu Creek State Park.

     BB-12 was captured and fitted with the radio collar on April 23rd.

     Scientists had been closely following his movements since then.

     He was estimated to be 3-4 years old.

     Other than this bear, the nearest confirmed population of black bears has been in the Santa Susana Mountains north of the 118 and in the Simi Hills south of the 118.