Yosemite visitors warned against bear damage

Bear breaks into a car

May 20, 1998
Web posted at: 3:02 p.m. EDT (1902 GMT)

YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK, California (CNN) -- Summer visitors to Yosemite National Park are getting a warning Wednesday about the danger of bears.

Most people know not to leave food out where bears can find it. But for many, the problem is a lot more violent than bears simply stealing a few picnic baskets.

Last weekend, a bear was videotaped leisurely raiding two cars in which park visitors had left food. First the bear stole the food and then urinated inside the car to mark his territory.

Park rangers say two to three cars are being mauled by bears every single day.

Since March 22, 117 cars have been damaged by bears. Some cars are totaled with the average damage being at least $2,000.

It's gotten so bad, guests are now required to sign bear waivers when they check in.

They're told not to keep any food, wrappers, large objects or luggage in their cars. They're also told to make sure their windows are rolled up and no scent of food is trapped inside.

Mark Jones, of CNN affiliate KRON, shows a bear carjacking
	1.9MB/22 sec./320x240 800K/22 sec./160x120 QuickTime movie

Related stories:

• A lesson for tourists to bear in mind - May 2, 1998
• Dogs come between Yosemite bears and campers - August 24, 1997
• Yosemite offers heavenly views, and hellish traffic - May 26, 1997
• Going to a National Park? Be ready for sticker shock - May 25, 1997
• U.S. celebrates national parks - April 23, 1997

Related sites:

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• National Park Service
  • Yosemite National Park

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