We provide practical, science-informed consulting and field services to reduce human-bear conflict. Our work includes property assessments, educational outreach, and the installation of non-lethal deterrents to help residents in Southern California foothill communities live safely alongside black bears (and to help keep bears wild!)

While there are many options on the market to deter bears, not all deterrents may be effective or installed in the best possible way to deter bears (no offense!). Conflict prevention is rarely "one-size-fits-all." With experience as a bear biologist and state wildlife manager, I (Jessica) provide a professional, niche skill set to identify hidden attractants and implement a comprehensive strategy tailored to your property’s unique landscape.

In addition - you may not be able to use certain deterrents (such as bear-resistant bins or electric fencing) due to local ordinances, codes, or other restrictions. I do the research to find out what can or cannot be used on your property!

No - Wild Neighbor does not perform wildlife trapping, direct handling, relocation, or euthanasia. Our focus is entirely on preventative, non-lethal strategies—such as securing attractants and installing deterrents—to resolve conflicts before they escalate.

We primarily serve select cities within the foothill and wildland-urban interface communities of Ventura, Santa Barbara, and Los Angeles Counties.

Scheduling is available during the following days of the week:

• Los Angeles County: Monday, Wednesday, Friday

• Santa Barbara & Ventura County: Tuesday, Thursday

We conduct a thorough evaluation of your property to identify "wildlife attractants"—things like unsecured trash, beehives, or fruit trees—that might draw bears near. You will receive a set of written recommendations and a customized plan for monitoring and mitigation.

We specialize in low-voltage, non-lethal electric fencing designed to provide a startling but safe psychological deterrent for bears. The electrified fencing used to deter bears is low-risk to humans, pets, and livestock, as well as fire-safe when installed and maintained correctly. During our assessment, we discuss the legal and safety considerations for your specific property to ensure the system is installed responsibly.

Yes! We install simple exclusion measures, such as crawl space covers, Unwelcome Mats, and/or electrical wiring to prevent bears from seeking shelter beneath raised structures.

Wild Neighbor focuses on small-scale, non-permitted systems and "exempt" installations that do not require major construction or building permits. For larger-scale or specialty projects that may require specific licensing, we coordinate with trusted, licensed subcontractors.

Yes! We are a professional LLC and maintain appropriate insurance coverage specifically for our consulting and wildlife conflict mitigation services.

The process begins with you contacting us with your specific needs and level of bear activity! We will provide an introductory consultation (phone call and/or email), and schedule a Site Assessment and/or Bear Safety Setup appointment (i.e. deterrents and infrastructure installation). Wild Neighbor will document bear activity and attractants to the best of our ability and discuss the best preventative measures for your home, garden, apiary, etc. - contact us today!