2 Oakland bear cubs separated from mother, rehabbing at Hunterdon wildlife refuge
The cubs, admitted April 17, were identified as “April,” a 5.5-pound female, and “Oak,” a 4.8-pound male. The pair were among four cubs denning under a house in Oakland with their mother.
Two orphaned black bear cubs from Oakland are being rehabilitated at Woodlands Wildlife Refuge after they were separated from their mother, the refuge said.
The cubs, admitted April 17, were identified as “April,” a 5.5-pound female, and “Oak,” a 4.8-pound male. The pair were among four cubs denning under a house in Oakland with their mother.
RELATED: Oakland family shares home with mama bear, 4 cubs
According to the refuge, the mother bear emerged from the den last week with all four cubs and quickly left the area, but only two of the cubs were able to follow her. The remaining cubs were rescued by officials and taken to the refuge.
The refuge said mother bears may not feel safe returning for cubs in busy areas if the scene is disturbed.
Woodlands Wildlife Refuge said the cubs are expected to remain until spring 2027, when black bears are typically released at their natural age of independence.
The refuge said rehabilitation costs about $100 per cub, per week, over the course of a year.
