Video captures big black bear's casual stroll across crowded California beach
A South Lake Tahoe beach day got a little more interesting last month when a bear was caught on camera meandering down the crowded shoreline.
Videographer Kennedy Wilkins told newswire service Storyful that he was on a trip when he spotted the scruffy bear walking along the shore on a hot day. He pulled out his camera to catch the big black bear enjoying a cool stroll on the beach, dipping its feet in the water as it went.
Despite a pedal boat, jet ski and other human contraptions blocking its path, the furry visitor seemed unfazed both by the obstacles and the large audience looking on. Luckily, the two-legged beachgoers knew to keep a safe distance from their guest.
Video: Black bear wanders on California beach
The bear can be seen lumbering off-screen toward the end of the clip and wading about chest height into the water, presumably to cool down on the sunny late-August afternoon.
Black bear encounters are not uncommon in many parts of California, as they are currently the only species of bear known to live there, according to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). Because they can live in a diverse range of habitats, including natural, rural and residential, black bears can be found across the state but often end up near humans in search of the trash and food we tend to leave behind.
In situations such as this one at the beach, CDFW suggests keeping a safe distance from the bear, avoiding eye contact and sudden movements like running and allowing the bear to leave on its own.
What to do if your beach day turns into a bear sighting
While black bears are not known to be particularly aggressive towards humans, the National Park Service suggests keeping a few things in mind in case of a bear encounter.
Regardless of the type of bear, the NPS advises that humans make an effort to bear-proof any stores of food — this goes for garbage cans and picnic baskets alike.
Those who find themselves face-to-face with a bear should remain calm, slowly make their way toward an exit or secure location and avoid eye contact, running, or making sudden, startling movements or sounds.
A few more tips from the NPS and FWC include:
- Talk in a low, steady voice and do not scream or otherwise act suddenly to startle the bear. Make yourself appear as large as possible.
- Travel in groups and either pick up small children upon sighting the bear or keep them out of the area altogether.
- If you encounter a bear in your own yard, do not leave the house. Ensure everyone is secure inside before banging pots or making other loud noises to scare the bear away.
- If you see cubs, be extra cautious. Mother bears are very protective of their young: do not approach, touch or interact with cubs.
- In the unlikely event you do end up attacked by a black bear, do not play dead. If immediate escape is not possible, try fighting back and aim for the face.