A grizzly bear comeback in California? An old dream gets new legs

The iconic grizzly bear, once mascot to California settlers and indigenous communities, nearly disappeared from the state in the mid-1920s after conflicts with humans led to their extinction. However, new research suggests that reintroducing them could be feasible, offering environmental benefits like controlling herbivore populations and dispersing seeds, as well as reconnecting with California’s Indigenous history and cultural heritage. The study identifies potential habitats in the state’s remaining wild areas, but public support is key—many Californians are drawn to the idea of a bear comeback, though skepticism remains about their coexistence with humans.