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Bear Steals Candy Bars from 7-Eleven in California

bear steals candy bars

A bear was caught red-handed when he stole candy bars from a 7-Eleven in California – we all know what a snack craving can do to us!

bear steals candy bars
©SWNS – YouTube

In the heart of California, an unusual yet fascinating event unfolded in a local 7-Eleven store.

A brown bear, a member of the significant bear population in the state, decided to pay a visit to this urban establishment.

This incident not only showcases the bear’s intelligence but also rings alarm bells about the increasing encounters between humans and bears.

How Big Is the Californian Brown Bear Population?

California is home to a substantial population of brown bears.

Historically, the California Grizzly Bear, a subspecies of the brown bear, was a prominent resident in the state. However, it became extinct in the early 1920s.

Today, the California black bear has taken its place, with a population soaring to approximately 30,000 to 40,000. These bears are often spotted in the forested regions, showcasing the rich biodiversity of the state.

Bear Steals Candy Bars: Caught Red-Handed

YouTube video

The video captures a brown bear’s unexpected visit to a 7-Eleven store in California.

As the bear enters, it seems to be on a mission, exploring the store with a particular interest in the food section. The store’s occupants engage in a verbal attempt to shoo the bear away. Despite the attempts, the bear seems undeterred.

The encounter ends with the bear exiting the store, leaving behind a trail of astonishment and laughter from the onlookers. It’s much too easy to forget the imminent dangers of bear encounters when they behave in comedic, and very human, ways like this.

To ensure their safety, the staff blocks the door with a broom once the bear leaves, finished with its shopping spree.

What This Sneaky Theft Tells Us About Their Intelligence

Man Talking To a Brown Bear

This incident is a testament to the bear’s intelligence and adaptability.

The bear’s actions in the video, such as checking for potential threats and ensuring a safe exit route, indicate a high level of situational awareness. Moreover, its ability to navigate through the urban environment to find food showcases its problem-solving skills and adaptability to changing environments.

This sneaky theft is a clear indication that bears are not just guided by instincts. They also possess impressive cognitive abilities.

How to Make Things Bear-Proof

To prevent such encounters and ensure safety, it is essential to bear-proof urban areas, especially those close to their natural habitats. Here are some bear-proofing tips:

  • Secure Garbage Bins: Ensure that you securely close garbage bins. This will prevent bears from scavenging for food.
  • Store Food Securely: When camping or living in bear-prone areas, store food in a manner that is inaccessible to bears. This includes bear-proof lockers or hanging food from trees.
  • Avoid Attracting Bears with Scents: Refrain from using products with strong scents that can attract bears. These include scented candles, soaps, and food items.
  • Keep Pets on Leashes: In bear-prone areas, keep pets on leashes to prevent potential encounters between bears and pets.
  • Clean BBQ Grills: After using barbecue grills, clean them thoroughly to remove food residues that can attract bears.
  • Plant Non-Attractive Flora: In gardens, plant flora that is less attractive to bears. This will prevent them from foraging in your yard.
  • Install Motion-Activated Lights: Set up motion-activated lights to deter bears from approaching your property.

Why Brown Bears Enter Urban Areas

The increasing instances of brown bears entering urban areas can be attributed to several factors.

Habitat loss due to urbanization and deforestation is a significant contributor, forcing bears to venture into human settlements in search of food. Moreover, the easy availability of food in urban areas acts as a magnet for these creatures.

It is a clear indication that the boundaries between the wild and urban spaces are blurring. We’re reminded that we need to take proactive measures to ensure the safety of both humans and bears.

Bear Steals Candy Bars: Conclusion

YouTube video

The video of a bear stealing candy bars from a 7-Eleven store in California is more than just a quirky incident. It serves as a reminder of the complex relationship between humans and wildlife.

It is a call to action for us to foster a harmonious relationship with the wildlife that shares our home, California. Through proactive measures, we can hope to coexist peacefully with these intelligent and adaptable creatures.

Thank you for reading this article about the bear that steals candy bears from a 7-Eleven! If you’d care for more bear, take a look at these posts:

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