Scientists say the bears might return to the West Coast — if the region can bear it.

Bears rest on a state flag, but nearly a century ago grizzlies left California.

The last resident bear, reportedly spotted in 1924, was also the last of its subspecies: Ursus arctos californicus. These California grizzlies had reached an estimated population of 10,000 before Europeans arrived and triggered their steady demise.

A professor of history and environmental studies at the University of California, Peter Alagona, argues that one day grizzlies can return to California. He says that the possibility of reintroduction is very high.