Video captured on Mount Wilson in the Angeles National Forest showed a black bear charging at a hiker. The footage, recorded by Eric Chiu and shared on Instagram on Monday, April 21, 2026, depicts a hiker walking toward a black bear while making noise with bells in an attempt to deter the animal. Instead of retreating, the bear charged directly at the hiker before the video ended. Both the hiker and the person recording the incident were unharmed, according to Chiu’s caption and subsequent interviews with local news outlets.
The incident occurred along a trail in the Angeles National Forest, a protected area in Southern California known for its rugged terrain and frequent wildlife encounters. Chiu told NBC Los Angeles that he was concerned for the hiker’s safety, stating, “I was thinking this guy is crazy and I hope nothing happens to him,” and added that he did not understand why someone would approach a bear intentionally. He noted that the bear’s reaction appeared to be a “false charge,” a defensive behavior where the animal bluffs an attack to ward off perceived threats without making contact.
Wildlife officials in California have reported a steady increase in black bear populations over recent decades, with estimates placing the current number at around 60,000 statewide—roughly triple the population recorded in 1998. This growth has led to more frequent interactions between humans and bears, particularly in areas where urban development borders natural habitats. In response, some rural communities have advocated for greater flexibility in managing problem bears, including expanded hunting opportunities, though such proposals remain debated among conservationists and state agencies.
The Mount Wilson area has seen multiple bear-related incidents in the months leading up to April 2026. In March 2026, a woman walking her dog in Monrovia was approached by a bear, and in January 2026, authorities used paintball guns and electrified mats to remove a bear that had taken shelter under a home in Altadena for six weeks. These events underscore the ongoing challenges of coexistence between residents and wildlife in the region.
Experts recommend that hikers and outdoor enthusiasts make noise to alert bears of their presence, carry bear spray, and avoid approaching or feeding wildlife. If encountered, individuals should back away slowly, avoid running, and give the animal a clear escape route. Playing dead is advised only if a bear makes physical contact during a defensive encounter, though such actions are rarely necessary with black bears, which typically retreat when given space.
As of April 22, 2026, no official statement has been issued by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife regarding the Mount Wilson incident. The agency typically updates the public on significant wildlife encounters through its website and social media channels, where safety guidelines and seasonal advisories are regularly posted. Hikers planning to visit the Angeles National Forest are encouraged to check current trail conditions and wildlife activity reports before heading out.
For those interested in learning more about black bear behavior and safety practices in California, the state’s official wildlife resources provide detailed information on how to prevent conflicts and respond appropriately during encounters. Continued public education remains a key component in reducing risks and promoting safe coexistence between people and bears in shared landscapes.
Jonathan Reed is the News Editor at World Today Journal, bringing over 16 years of experience in investigative and global reporting to coverage of breaking news and environmental developments. He holds an MA in International Journalism from City, University of London and is based in London, United Kingdom.
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