2021 Total Property Damage: $268
Bear Incident Comparisons (year to date—previous years compared to 2021):
- Last year - up by 300%
- Most Incidents (1998) - down by 98%
- Fewest Incidents (2019) - up by 14%
It is always important to keep food within arm’s-reach and report any bears near development. When a bear gets food from people, it can lead to a rapid escalation in bear behavior. If you see a bear in a developed area or approaching people, yell at the bear as aggressively and loudly as possible. It is important for bears to keep their natural fear of humans and developed areas. If you see a bear outside of a developed area, please stay at least 50 yards away, and back up if you are too close.
Report bear incidents and sightings: Call the Save-A-Bear Hotline at 209-372-0322 or e-mail yose_bear_mgmt@nps.gov. For more information visit https://KeepBearsWild.org
Red Bear, Dead Bear: Please help protect wildlife by obeying speed limits and being prepared to stop for animals in roadways. At least four bears have been hit by vehicles in the last month in Yosemite.
Fascinating Bear Facts: A bear’s sense of smell is believed to be the best of all terrestrial mammals, estimated to be ~2,100x stronger than ours and measured to be capable of picking up on scents 1-3 miles away. With that in mind and the population density of black bears in Yosemite being approximately 1 bear per square mile, at least 1 bear is smelling you at all times while in Yosemite.
If you are planning a trip to Yosemite with a dog, please make sure you know the rules. Many wild animals including bears, may change their behavior around dogs—even becoming aggressive. Always keep pets on a six-foot leash, and give even wildlife even more space if you are with a pet.
