Yosemite Bear Facts August 23rd – September 5th, 2015

Bear Activity Summary: Bears continue to be active in wilderness areas in Yosemite. Bears obtained hiker’s food on several occasions recently when food was either stored improperly or hikers became scared and backed off their food when a bear approached their wilderness campsite. Remember, bears are active day and night and may be drawn to your campsite by the smell of food. Protect yourself and bears by placing all food and scented items in a secured bear canister for storage. Also, keep a tidy camp and food items close to you while cooking or eating so that food can be cleaned up and secured quickly if a bear comes into your campsite. 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, 29 bears have been hit by vehicles. Please protect wildlife by obeying speed limits and paying attention to roadsides while driving.

Interesting Bear Fact: Bears play an important role transporting nutrients through the ecosystem through foraging and feeding.

Other Wildlife Sightings: A mountain lion was reported in Wawona and two mountain lions have been reported in Yosemite Valley over the last two weeks.