Northern California Bears Skip Hibernation, Causing Suburban Encounters
Black bears near Redding are abandoning traditional winter hibernation patterns, leading to increased encounters in residential areas. Wildlife officials report over 100 annual bear-related calls in Shasta County alone, prompting concerns about changing wildlife behaviors due to human food sources.
California Announces Staggered Opening Dates for 2024 Dungeness Crab Season
California sets new commercial Dungeness crab fishing schedule with different start dates and trap restrictions across zones to protect marine wildlife. The $45 million fishery will open January 15 in northern areas and January 5 in southern regions, with varying trap reduction measures.
Hidden Pesticide Crisis: California Cannabis Industry's Testing Loopholes Expose Health Risks
Recent testing reveals half of legal cannabis vapes in California contain unmonitored pesticides, with some products showing higher contamination than black market alternatives. The investigation exposes critical gaps in state regulations while highlighting specific health risks from pesticide exposure through inhalation.
First U.S. Child Bird Flu Case Reported in California with Mysterious Origins
A child in Alameda County has tested positive for bird flu without any known contact with infected animals, marking a potential first pediatric case in the U.S. While the child is recovering at home with mild symptoms, health officials are investigating possible exposure routes amid the ongoing national outbreak.
Deadly Fungus Threatens California's Bat Populations
White-nose syndrome, a lethal fungal disease, has been detected in several California counties, endangering multiple bat species. Wildlife experts are on high alert as the disease spreads, potentially impacting the state's ecological balance.
Firefighter Bitten by Bear While Battling Shasta County's Shoe Fire
A firefighter in California's Shoe Fire incident experienced an unexpected encounter with a bear, resulting in a minor injury. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife is investigating the incident, highlighting the diverse challenges faced by wildfire responders.
California's Dungeness Crab Season Faces Sixth Consecutive Delay
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife postpones commercial Dungeness crab fishing due to high whale populations. The delay impacts local fishermen and holiday traditions, while sparking debates on fishing practices and conservation efforts.