Bear Facts

March 30, 2025

updated as often as possible

Bear Incidents

Location

Wilderness: 0

Campgrounds: 2

Parking lots and roadsides: 0

Residential: 3

Other areas: 3

Total: 8

Number of incidents last year: 34

So far this year, incidents are:

• up by --% compared to last year (no incidents yet at this time last year)
• up by 700% compared to the year with the fewest incidents (2019)
• down by 60% compared to the year with the most incidents (1998)

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).

Activity Summary

Bears are being reported consistently in Yosemite Valley, but are likely active throughout much of the park’s lower elevations. This week bears got food from an unlatched food locker in Curry Village and trash from a residential garage. So far this year bears have been documented getting into human food and trash in most lodging and camping areas, as well as in many residential areas.

Last week, wildlife management staff captured and GPS collared an adult male bear suspected of getting into a garage so its behavior could be monitored. Bear jams are occurring almost daily and several sow and yearling pairs have been observed and have caused small crowds in Yosemite Valley. No cubs have been seen yet, but yearlings and adult bears appear to be in good body condition coming from hibernation. Acorns, especially black oak, are still abundant on the ground in the Valley from last fall. Please remember that if you see a bear in the park give it plenty of space (at least 50 yards, but if the bear is reacting to you, you are too close). If you see a bear in a campground, hotel, or other human developed area yell and make lots of noise to scare it away.

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.

Slow Down!

Twenty-one bears were hit by vehicles in 2024 with three confirmed dead. Please help protect wildlife by obeying speed limits and being prepared to stop for animals in roadways.

Fascinating Bear Fact

Black bears have an average of two cubs at a time. Litters of one or three are not uncommon and bears can even have four or more. The litter size often increases with age and body size/condition of the mother. Females generally become sexually mature at three to four years of age, but may be delayed to as late as seven in less productive habitats.

Learn more about bear biology and bear management in Yosemite.

Other Wildlife

Avian influenza is still being reported and monitored throughout the United States. This virus can impact animals beyond birds, including mammals. Remember to not handle or approach any wildlife in Yosemite, and report sick and dead animals to Wildlife Management.