Bear Food

I watched from a safe distance as this mama bear went down the street on the day of trash pickup. (Bears show up each week on trash day. How they know when is a mystery. Smell? The clanging of the trash truck? Their little pocket calendars they carry around with the monthly pictures of especially attractive dumpsters?)

This bear opened every container with practiced skill, showing her two cubs (just to the side of this picture) the various techniques. She used her teeth to bite the edge of the garbage can lid and lift it off the can. She used her paw to tip the can over and pull out the bags inside. She rolled each bag over, knowing exactly which ones to open up and which ones to leave, i.e., scented trash bags don't fool a bear.

Tahoe locals know to put garbage in bear-proof containers or bring it out just as the trash truck comes down the street.

Behind this bear you can see the garbage that vacation rental tourists set out in the street. Big mess, and potential big fine.

When you come to Tahoe, and it comes time to throw out your trash, please take a moment to learn the where/what/when aspects of garbage collection. It will save you a hassle and some money, too.