A mama bear and her fluffy cub were seen escaping the heat in a San Gabriel Valley family’s backyard pool on Friday afternoon – a heartwarming wildlife encounter for the homeowners.
The sighting happened around noon in Monrovia, where residents say bear visits are a regular part of life. But this visit was especially adorable, as it marked the first time this particular bear brought her young cub along for a dip.
“We regularly see bears, but this is the first time this mama bear and her cub have been in our pool,” the homeowner told KTLA. “It’s so cute, we wanted to share.”
Video shared with KTLA shows the tagged mother bear – a known neighborhood visitor – enjoying the cool water, while her more hesitant cub stayed poolside. After relaxing for a bit, the pair climbed into a nearby avocado tree for a snack.
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A mama and baby bear are seen cooling off in a Monrovia family’s backyard pool. May 2025. (Dave Paige) -
A mama and baby bear are seen cooling off in a Monrovia family’s backyard pool. May 2025. (Dave Paige) -
A mama and baby bear are seen cooling off in a Monrovia family’s backyard pool. May 2025. (Dave Paige)
“We let them do their thing and try not to create a problem for them,” the resident added.
Bear sightings in Southern California’s foothill neighborhoods have become more frequent, especially during warmer months when wildlife seek water and food sources in residential areas.
Wildlife experts remind the public to secure trash, avoid feeding wild animals, and maintain a safe distance when encounters occur.