Bear activity continues to increase throughout the park as the snow melts and spring food sources become available. If you see a bear foraging in an undeveloped area, please maintain a respectful distance (at least 50 yards) and avoid disturbing the bear by moving away if the bear approaches you.
Yosemite Valley has had multiple reports of bears in picnic areas at dusk over the last week. Additionally, bears have been seen in repeatedly in Valley campgrounds. Bears obtained food from campers on four occasions recently including incidents where a bear obtained food that was left out in a plastic bin and food from a food storage locker that was not latched. There were also multiple instances of food being taken by bears at night after being left or forgotten in backpacks that were left out in campsites. The best way to protect your property and help bears remain wild is to store all scented items and food in your food storage locker and ensure that it is latched completely. If you see a bear during your visit, please report it to the Save-A-Bear Hotline at 209-372-0322.
Other Wildlife Sightings: A mountain lions was reported in Poopenaut Valley this past week and multiple coyotes have been seen along roadsides. 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