Imagine enjoying a laid-back day at the beach when suddenly you’re confronted with a large black bear staring at you. That’s precisely what some beachgoers at South Lake Tahoe experienced in late August 2024 when a furry friend decided to join them for a swim. It was a curious black bear caught on camera strolling through the sand at Pope Beach and Boathouse on the Pier, seemingly unbothered by the crowd.
Bearing up with a Bear on a Beach
Videographer Kennedy Wilkins seemed to have been at the right spot at the right time when he noticed the big black scruffy bear walking along the shoreline. It was, after all, a sweltering hot day, and the bear most probably wanted to cool off in the water. The fact that the beach was crowded did not bother the bear at all.
The bear strolling along the beach, frequently dipping its paws in the water, seemed oblivious to contraptions like jet skis and pedal boats blocking its way. Good sense prevailed among the crowd, who kept a safe distance, curiously watching their beach day usurped by the fuzzy guest.
A Leisurely Dip, That’s All It Wanted
Witnesses captured the moment as the bear took a leisurely dip in the lake, much to the delight and astonishment of onlookers. The bear seemed to enjoy the refreshing swim under the warm California sun, bringing a unique twist to the typical beach day! It lumbered out and wandered off after it had enjoyed a splash in chest-deep water. It seemed the bear understood creating a ruckus and going all grizzly would not have gone down well with the humans.
Black bears are often seen wandering into human habitats in several parts of California, the only species common to the area. Several invade neighborhoods, rummaging trashcans or even entering houses looking for food.
The Jelly Thief
On September 2nd, one bear was reportedly broken into the cabin of Scott Cloutier, a resident of Lake Tahoe. The bear raided his fridge and tucked into a can of jelly. Cloutier shared the footage captured on a security camera on social media.
Bears Prepare to Hibernate in October
Wildlife officials say bears preparing for hibernation in October begin piling up the calories. Thus, locals are advised to secure their cabins, cars, and coolers to avoid unexpected visits. Unsecured homes and food can lead to more frequent bear encounters.
The cheeky bear swimming on Pope Beach was a delightful, lighthearted experience for many. It was also an excellent reminder to stay bear safe as the animals prepare for their long winter naps!
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