Bear attacks two 87-year-olds inside their home near South Lake Tahoe

"One of the homeowners found the bear as he entered his garage around 4:30 a.m., according to a news release from the Nevada Department of Wildlife. The man subsequently backed away, but the bear scratched his hand and followed him into the house, the department said. While in the house, the bear also scratched the other homeowner. Eventually, the bear left the house. Both residents had minor injuries and were released from the hospital, the department said."

"Bears in the area are currently in a phase called hyperphagia, which is when they are more active and consume massive amounts of calories to prepare for hibernation, Shawn Espinosa, an official with the Department of Wildlife, said in the news release. "To ensure bears make their ways to their dens, it is important that residents secure attractants," Espinosa said."

"Approximately 90% of bear encounters start because of exposed trash, according to the Nevada Department of Wildlife. Residents should have a bear-resistant garbage can and remove food, trash and other scented items from their vehicles. Officials also advise removing things like bird feeders, bird seed and pet food, and cleaning dirty barbecues. Those living in bear country should make sure their doors and windows are locked when they aren't home or when rooms are unoccupied."

A nearly 300-pound bear entered a home off Kingsbury Grade near Stateline and South Lake Tahoe and scratched two 87-year-old residents. One homeowner encountered the bear in his garage around 4:30 a.m., backed away, but the bear scratched his hand and followed into the house, also scratching the other resident. Both suffered minor injuries and were released from the hospital. Bears in the area are in hyperphagia, increasing activity and calorie consumption before hibernation. About 90% of bear encounters begin with exposed trash. Residents should secure attractants, use bear-resistant cans, remove food and scented items from vehicles, remove bird feeders and pet food, clean grills, lock doors and windows, and scare off bears by yelling, banging pots, or triggering car alarms.

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