NewsCalifornia News

Actions

Bear cub burned in wildfire heals at California center

Western Wildfires Bear Rescued
Posted at 5:22 PM, Jul 27, 2021
and last updated 2021-07-27 20:22:32-04

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. (AP) — An injured bear cub rescued after it suffered burns in a California wildfire is being nursed back to health at a wildlife center at Lake Tahoe.

Officials at Lake Tahoe Wildlife Care have named the young male bear “Tamarack” after the fire that burned through the Sierra south of the lake and into Nevada. The center's animal care director says the cub is about 6 months old and was walking on his elbows because of burns on his paws. A veterinarian wrapped his paws and gave him painkillers.

Officials said they’re working to get a skin treatment that will speed healing.

The center will likely keep the bear through winter and release him in the spring.