Topanga welcomes rare new neighbors: Mama black bear and 3 cubs

A nomadic bear journeyed throughout Southern California. Now she may be settling down — with her cubs

A black bear known as Yellow 2291 was recently spotted by Topanga residents with three cubs, which would make them the first black bear family to reside in the Santa Monica Mountains in years.

Topanga welcomes rare new neighbors: Mama black bear and 3 cubs

A 175-pound mama black bear and her three fuzzy cubs have made a rare home in the Santa Monica Mountains near Topanga Canyon, drawing a warm welcome from neighbors and hikers — from a safe distance. Doorbell and backyard cameras — plus routine dog walkers — are catching glimpses of the furry family as they nose around local trails and creek beds. Officials say the bears began leaving their den this spring, with reports of sightings continuing th…