August 26, 2015 - Bear Activity Summary: Bears obtained food in wilderness areas on several occasions recently. Five of these incidents were the result of visitor’s leaving food out in their campsites. Bears have an incredible sense of smell and are curious by nature. Food must be stored in a completely latched canister or food storage locker whenever it’s not being used.
Another incident occurred after a hiker failed to latch their bear canister completely overnight. A bear was able to pry open the canister lid by bending it back, even though it was partially secured. Please make sure that your food container is properly closed every time you use it! Additionally, several backpackers left their food when a bear approached their campsite. Always keep food within arm’s reach and be prepared to scare bears away by yelling loudly and making lots of noise if a bear approaches you while you are eating or preparing food.
If you see a bear during your visit please report it to the Save-A-Bear Hotline at 209-372-0322.
Red Bear, Dead Bear: So far this year, 24 bears have been hit by vehicles. Please protect wildlife by obeying speed limits and paying attention to roadsides while driving.
Interesting Bear Fact: Bears molt once a year between May and September.
Other Wildlife Sightings: Several mountain lions have been reported in Yosemite Valley over the last two weeks.
For more information on mountain lions in Yosemite National Park, please visit the National Park Service website,http://www.nps.gov/yose/naturescience/mountainlion.htm.
