Black Bear Sighting On Malibu Campus

Posted on

Department of Facilities Services staff spotted what appears to be a black bear in the Terrace Parking Lot shortly before 11 PM tonight. The sighting was reported to Public Safety, who contacted the local sheriff’s department and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, per University practice for wildlife sightings. Public Safety officers were dispatched to the area but were unable to locate the animal. Out of an abundance of caution, Public Safety officers will conduct additional patrols throughout the evening.  

Black bear sightings in Malibu are exceedingly rare, as their normal range is farther north. Pepperdine officials share confirmed wildlife sightings near the Malibu campus to ensure the University community is informed of, but not alarmed by, the wildlife with whom we share the Santa Monica Mountains.  

If you encounter a black bear:

  • Respect the animal.
  • Keep a safe distance and back away slowly. 
  • Do NOT run. 
  • Do not make eye contact. 
  • Appear as large, loud, and powerful as possible. Let the bear know you are there. 
  • Let the bear leave the area on its own. 
  • If there are small children or pets present, pick them up immediately. Additionally do NOT leave them unattended outside.
  • In the unlikely event of an attack, fight back. Do not fall to the ground or roll into the fetal position.

Please remember:

  • Public Safety security escorts are available on the Malibu campus 24/7 by calling Public Safety Dispatch at (310) 506-4442.
  • If you see concerning wildlife on or near the Malibu campus, please report the incident to Public Safety at (310) 506-4441.
    • If safe to do so, please take a picture and/or video and send it to Public Safety via the LiveSafe app.

This entry was posted in Malibu.