Black Bears Increase Home Break-Ins in Lake Tahoe, Residents Fortify Defenses
In Lake Tahoe, black bears have been increasingly breaking into homes, prompting residents to spend significant amounts on protective measures. The South Lake Tahoe police have reported 174 bear-related calls this year, a notable increase from 97 calls during the same period last year. Incidents include bears entering homes, with one couple encountering a bear in their living room. As a result, homeowners are installing electric mats, reinforced doors, and other deterrents, costing thousands of dollars. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife advises eliminating food attractants and using bear-proof containers to prevent such encounters.