Low Snowpack Could Increase Human-Bear Encounters Around Lake Tahoe
As spring arrives in the Tahoe Basin, black bears are emerging from hibernation and searching for food. Wildlife officials say low snowpack and warmer temperatures could increase the chances of bears turning to human food sources this year.
Black bears are awake across the Tahoe region, and wildlife agencies are urging residents and visitors to take extra precautions this spring to help keep bears wild.
According to the Tahoe Interagency Bear Team, male bears and females without cubs are already active and feeding on early-season grasses and plants. But with Lake Tahoe snowpack sitting at just 24% of the April average, officials warn that reduced natural food availability later in the year could push more bears into neighborhoods and recreation areas in search of food. 
One of the biggest concerns this season is the potential decline in “mast” crops — the nuts, seeds, and berries bears rely on throughout the year. Warm temperatures and low snowpack may shorten the growing season and reduce berry and seed production across the region.
When natural food becomes scarce, bears often shift toward human-related food sources, including unsecured garbage, bird feeders, pet food, and scented items left in vehicles or campsites. Officials say this not only increases human-bear conflicts but also puts bears at greater risk.
“What puts bears at greatest risk isn’t a lack of natural food, it’s access to ours,” said California State Parks Bear Management Specialist Sarinah Simons. “If we want healthy bears on the landscape, we need to give them the space to stay wild.”
Wildlife agencies note that in years with poor natural food availability, bear-related vehicle collisions can double or even triple as bears travel farther in search of food.
How to Help Keep Tahoe Bears Wild
Officials are encouraging both locals and visitors to follow the BearWise® guidelines this spring and summer:
- Secure food, garbage, and recycling
- Remove bird feeders when bears are active
- Never leave pet food outdoors
- Clean grills and smokers after use
- Keep doors and windows locked
- Never feed or approach bears
Food and trash should never be left in vehicles, and all scented items should be properly stored while camping or recreating in the Tahoe Basin.
The Tahoe Interagency Bear Team also encourages people to report sick, injured, or orphaned bears to wildlife professionals rather than attempting to intervene themselves.
For more information about living responsibly in bear country, visit tahoebears.org or bearwise.org.
MAIN IMAGE: Bears that rely on human food and garbage face a higher risk of mortality. Responsibly securing these attractants is the best way to deter bears from urban areas. Photo courtesy of JT Humprey Photography.
Read the original release:
https://www.parks.ca.gov/NewsRelease/1521
