Just another sunny weekend in Lake Tahoe turned into a wild survival story when a persistent black bear decided campgrounds were her personal buffet and playground. Early Sunday morning, a female bear crossed the line from curious wildlife to full-on home invader, breaking into a trailer and leaving a camper battered and bruised.

A Bear with a History

This wasn’t just a random bear encounter. Wildlife officials had been tracking this particular bear since June 17, after multiple failed attempts to scare her away from human-populated areas. Her rap sheet included breaking into cars, confronting campers, and even a terrifying incident where she approached a vehicle with a child inside.

The Final Encounter

On that fateful Sunday, the bear broke into a trailer around 4:30 a.m., catching a camper completely off guard. Despite the victim’s attempts to scare the bear away by screaming and banging pots and pans, the animal forced its way in and attacked, leaving the camper with cuts and bruises that required a hospital visit.

A Tough Decision

After tracking the bear to another nearby campground, State Parks rangers made the difficult decision to euthanize her. Steve Gonzalez from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife emphasized that this was a last resort, prioritizing human safety. In a compassionate twist, the bear’s two cubs were captured and sent to a wildlife rehabilitation facility with hopes of eventual release.

This incident serves as a stark reminder that in Tahoe, we’re guests in the wilderness. Wildlife experts continue to advise residents and visitors to stay alert, secure food, and respect the natural habitat of these powerful creatures.

Remember, in bear country, your awareness can prevent tragedy, for both humans and animals.