The ski resorts around Lake Tahoe in California have seen some incredible snowfall totals over the past several days, with some resorts receiving feet of snow in just 24 hours. The weather is bringing out a lot of skiers and snowboarders hoping to take advantage of the powder, but it isn’t just waking up the recreators. On Wednesday, February 18th, a mother black bear and 2 cubs were spotted running across a rather busy trail at Northstar Resort.
Several people skied far too close to the animals, rather than giving them the space they deserve. Fortunately it seems that the bears were able to return to the woods without further incident and nobody was charged or attacked, but it should still be understood that this is not the way to behave in such an incident.
“If the bear has seen you and is surprised or curious, DO NOT RUN. Don’t act aggressively. Show the bear you mean no harm by talking softly and calmly. Back away slowly while facing the bear and alter route. If a bear approaches you, stand your ground and try to make yourself appear larger by raising your arms above your head or if wearing a jacket opening it wide. Black bear attacks are very rare, but if attacked, fight back.” – Keep Tahoe Bears Wild
Black bears do slow down and den up over the winter, sometimes going months without eating or drinking, but they don’t necessarily experience hibernation in the same manner as other animals. In the Lake Tahoe area specifically, some bears will still continue to seek out food sources and stay active throughout the winter months.
If you encounter black bears in the wild, give them plenty of space. Never approach bears or cubs, and never impose for the sake of sightseeing or photo taking. Always ensure that the animals have an escape route.
