Bear Sightings In Downtown Sonora Area

Published Sep 5, 2026 12:44 pm

Bear sighting behind the Mother Lode Fairgrounds in Sonora

Sonora, CA – A big black bear was roaming near the Mother Lode Fairgrounds early this morning near downtown Sonora, and a resident wants to warn the public.

The property owner was astonished to see the animal on their security cameras after walking through a gate onto the premises. Click on the video tab under the image box photo to view the first of two videos. It shows the bear at 1:33 a.m. walking over to some trash and recycling bins, but since they were bear-proof, it lost interest.

In the second video here, the bear can be seen about to walk through a metal gate but instead starts to climb a nearby tree. The animal then changes its mind and retreats out of the gate.

Due to the bear being in such a populated area, the resident wanted to share the video and let his neighbors and others know what was lurking around the area and the potential dangers to families and pets.

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife gives these tips for bear sightings:

• Keep your distance: Never approach or follow the bear.
• Secure food and trash: Keep garbage, pet food, and other attractants locked away.
• Protect pets & children: Bring pets inside or keep them supervised and on a leash. Do not leave children alone outside.
• Give it space: Let the bear move away on its own.

When to Call for Help: Call 911:

• Contact emergency services immediately if the bear acts aggressively or poses a direct threat to public safety.
• Click here to learn how to report the sighting to CDFW.