Visitors heading to the Sierra Nevada Mountains in California may come across “bear crossing” warning signs at campsites or roadside pull-offs in Cedar Grove, Kings Canyon.
Holly Brown, the public affairs officer for the Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, revealed in an interview with Epoch Times that bear activity in the Cedar Grove area has increased. The Cedar Grove had been closed due to weather-related issues last year and reopened on June 10, bringing excitement to visitors traveling east on Highway 180 from Fresno.
The National Park Service explained that the closure last year was due to “significant damage” caused by winter floods of 2022-2023. However, the decrease in human activity may have led to a resurgence of black bears (the only bear species in the sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks) in the region.
According to park authorities, black bears are usually secretive in their movements, foraging in grasslands, trees, and old tree trunks. However, when it comes to food, humans in the park might cause trouble. Krysten Kellum from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife explained that most wildlife, including black bears, generally avoid or fear humans, but black bears are more likely to develop conditioned reflexes towards food.
When bears easily access human food, they may abandon natural food sources in favor of seeking out human food. This could lead to conflicts between bears and humans, a situation that could have been prevented.
Kellum stated, “We want bears to remain wild and find their own food.” By keeping food or scented items in bear-proof containers or food storage lockers, unnecessary contact can be reduced.
Kellum advised, “If you leave food, deodorants, or sunscreen in your car, make sure all windows are tightly closed.” She mentioned that some bears have learned to recognize coolers, thus it’s recommended for visitors to secure these items in the trunk of their vehicles to avoid curious bears peeking through the windows.
Kellum also emphasized, “If you’re camping, never bring any scented items into the tent.”
She encouraged visitors planning to explore the Sierra Nevada Mountains to research thoroughly before setting out. “Know your destination,” she said, “Don’t wait until you arrive to realize you’re in bear country.” However, situations can be unpredictable. Kellum suggested that if visitors encounter a bear unexpectedly in the woods, they should try to make themselves appear larger and make loud noises to scare the bear away.