Wildlife Resources

Wildlife Management & Safety

Sierra Madre’s proximity to the San Gabriel Mountains means we share our community with wildlife like bears, coyotes, bobcats, and deer. While most interactions are peaceful, residents must be proactive. The City's strategy balances respect for wildlife with an uncompromising commitment to public safety.

Download 2024 Wildlife Management Plan (PDF)

Immediate Danger

Call 9-1-1 or (626) 355-1414

Call immediately if:

Wildlife is entering a home or structure.
An animal is cornered or acting aggressively.
There is an immediate threat to human safety.

Report Sightings

Non-Emergency Reporting

Sick/Injured Animals: Call Pasadena Humane at (626) 792-7151
Property Damage: File a report with CDFW (see below).
Track Activity: View State Wildlife Data

Message from Police Chief Gus Barrientos

"One of the challenges we face involves human-created food sources that attract wildlife, especially bears, into our neighborhoods."

Your cooperation plays a critical role. If you haven’t already, please ensure that your bins are equipped with locking mechanisms and secured both before and after collection days.

- Chief Gus Barrientos

City Ordinance 6.10.030

It is unlawful to leave refuse, pet food, or any food source in a manner likely to feed wildlife.

Use bear-resistant bins.
Lock bins on non-pickup days.
Violations are subject to fines.

Bear-Resistant Bins: Community Responsibility

Athens Services has distributed bear-resistant containers to residents across Sierra Madre. This system only works if everyone participates. A single unlatched bin can attract bears to an entire neighborhood.

Latch It Every Time

The gravity-fed lid only works when fully closed and latched. Check your bins every night.

Use the Green Bin

ALL food scraps must go in the Green Organics Bin. This is the primary way to stop baiting bears to your home.

Request a Bin

If you need a replacement, contact Athens Services immediately.