October 26-November 1, 2008
updated as often as possible

Bear Incidents

Number of incidents last year
To date: 462
Total: 500

Total property damage this year is $67,181. So far this year, incidents are down 7% compared to the same time last year, but down 72% since 1998.

Activity Update
Many bears that were out of the Valley in late September and early October returned in the past two weeks. This week, there has been an increase in the number of bears and in bear activity in Yosemite Valley, with many sightings in and around campgrounds, residential areas, and lodging facilities. Please clip dumpsters and ensure that all of your food is safely stored so that a bear will not be able to get it. If you are visiting the park, please use food lockers or keep your food in your hotel room with you. Do not leave food in your vehicle, or outside unattended. If you are a resident of the park, please remember to keep your home secure when you are away. Do not leave windows open and check to make sure that all doors are secure. Please remember that even though it is getting colder outside, bears are still active.

SLOW DOWN!
Twenty-four bears have been hit by cars this year! Seventeen bears were hit by cars last year, along with an unknown number of deer, squirrels and other park animals. Slow down and save Yosemite’s wildlife.

Let us know if you see a bear, no matter where it is or what it's doing. Call 209/372-0322 or send an email.

Note: A bear incident occurs when a bear causes a monetary loss to a person--that is, if the bear causes property damage or obtains food. Bear incidents also include cases of bears causing injury to a person (which are fairly uncommon).