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Keep them wild....

Its not uncommon to come across a bear or two when you visit Mammoth. In fact, I've had guests send me pictures of bears cruising down Lakeview Blvd, and climbing our dumpster, looking for snacks. My kids regularly see bears when they fish up at the Lakes.

If you're curious to "see" bears, the safest way is to check out the videos at TheBearWhisperer.com, the website of local naturalist and bear conservator. Steve Searles.

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Bears are attracted to anything that is edible or smelly. Use this checklist to help bear-proof your vacation:

• Use a bear-proof garbage container like Sonenalp's bear-safe dumpster, located in the driveway. Be sure to re-engage the lock after closing.
• Don’t leave trash, groceries or pet food in your car or in Sonenalp's garage. 
• Don’t leave any scented products outside, even suntan lotion, insect repellent, soap or candles.
• Be sure to keep the garage doors closed during your stay. Scents can lure bears inside. 
• Drive slowly! Bears and other wildlife cross the local roads all the time. Be cautious when driving through town.
• Use good judgment. Do not approach animals in the wild, respect their habitat and above all, never feed wildlife.
• While hiking, make noise to avoid a surprise encounter with a bear.
• If you encounter a bear, do not run; instead, face the animal, make noise and try to appear as large as possible. If attacked, fight back.

Excerpted from California Department of Fish and Wildlife's Keep Me Wild website and pamphlet, Guide to Living in Bear Country; Also Steve Searles guest blog for Mammoth Lakes, How to Co-Exist with Bears. To contact The Bear Whisperer call 760-937-BEAR.