Just another morning in bear country turned into a wild encounter when a hungry bruin decided to crash an 87-year-old couple’s home in Stateline.

Wildlife officials are reminding Tahoe residents that bears are in full hyperphagia mode – essentially a pre-winter eating binge that can make these furry neighbors extra bold and unpredictable. In this case, the bear’s quest for calories led to a home invasion that left two residents with minor scratches.

When Bears Get Hangry

The incident unfolded early Wednesday when the male resident entered his garage, only to find an unexpected breakfast guest. As he tried to back away, the bear scratched his hand and then followed him into the home, also scratching his wife in the process. Emergency responders confirmed the injuries were minor, but the encounter highlights the increasing human-wildlife interactions in our mountain community.

Preventing Bear Break-Ins

Shawn Espinosa from the Nevada Department of Wildlife emphasized that bears are desperately trying to pack on weight before winter hibernation. This means residents need to be extra vigilant about securing food and trash. The NDOW guidelines offer critical tips for coexisting safely with these powerful animals.

A Reminder of Wild Tahoe

While scary, this incident is a quintessential Tahoe moment – a raw, unfiltered interaction with the wilderness that makes our mountain community unique. It’s a stark reminder that we’re guests in their habitat, not the other way around. Stay alert, secure your snacks, and remember: in Tahoe, the wildlife has right of way.