Alicia Taylor’s ordinary day in Monrovia, California, took an unexpected turn when she left her front window open to let in some fresh air. Unbeknownst to her, this simple act was all the invitation needed for a mama bear and her curious cub to enter her home in search of snacks. What followed was both terrifying and unforgettable, leaving Alicia with a story she’ll be telling for years.
The bears wasted no time making themselves at home. They raided the pantry and zeroed in on the most irresistible treats: donuts and other goodies. Alicia discovered the unexpected intruders in her kitchen and quickly realized the gravity of the situation. Remaining calm, she decided to act. Using a loud banging noise, she managed to startle the bears enough to send them retreating back through the open window.
“I couldn’t believe what was happening,” Alicia later recounted. “Seeing them in my kitchen was absolutely surreal and so scary. I just wanted them out safely without anyone getting hurt.”
Once the bears were outside, Alicia secured her home, but the experience left her shaken. Though no one was harmed and the damage was minimal, the sight of a mama bear and her cub casually wandering through her home was an encounter she wouldn’t soon forget.
However, the story didn’t end there. The very next day, the bears returned, likely hoping for another chance at the pantry. This time, they were met with a closed window and no way inside. Alicia had learned her lesson and made sure every window and door was tightly secured, effectively thwarting the bears’ snack heist.
Living in Monrovia, encounters with wildlife are not uncommon, as the town is located near bear habitats. As natural food sources become scarcer, bears often venture into residential areas in search of easy meals. Alicia’s experience is a stark reminder of the importance of securing homes and removing attractants like food and trash.
While Alicia is relieved the situation ended without harm, she acknowledges the humor in hindsight. “It’s not every day you have bears breaking into your house for donuts,” she said with a laugh. Still, she remains cautious and hopes her neighbors will take similar precautions to avoid future incidents.
For now, the mama bear and her cub have moved on, leaving Alicia with a harrowing but ultimately lighthearted tale. Her close call highlights the delicate balance between humans and wildlife in shared spaces, emphasizing the need for mutual respect and preparedness.
