A California family had an unexpected visitor take a refreshing dip in their hot tub, and the heartwarming encounter was all caught on camera. Joie Rushing and her family were out for a hike in Forest Falls, an unincorporated community about 75 miles east of Los Angeles when a curious black bear decided to make itself at home on their deck.
Security footage shared by Rushing shows the bear casually wandering onto the deck, where it initially sniffed around and inspected an inflatable pool. The bear then moved on to the hot tub, skillfully pushing the cover aside before taking a quick plunge. After its brief soak, the bear stretched out on the deck, seemingly enjoying the moment.
“You can’t help but watch him have so much fun!” Rushing told Storyful, describing the bear as “having a blast.” The video quickly gained attention online, with many viewers charmed by the bear’s playful behavior.
While the encounter was amusing, it’s unclear if the bear caused any damage to the property or if it returned later.
Bear Encounters on the Rise
Black bears are common in many parts of California, inhabiting a range of environments, including forests, grasslands, deserts, and areas where urban development meets the wilderness. According to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, these animals are highly motivated by food and are often drawn to smells that resemble potential meals. To minimize the risk of bear encounters, the department advises securing all food and other attractants.
What to Do If You Encounter a Bear
The National Park Service offers several guidelines for safely managing a bear encounter:
- Stay Calm: Talk in a low, steady voice and avoid sudden movements.
- Appear Larger: Make yourself appear as large as possible.
- Stay Inside: If you spot a bear in your yard, remain indoors, ensuring everyone is safe inside before making loud noises, such as banging pots, to scare the bear away.
- Beware of Cubs: If you see bear cubs, exercise extra caution. Mother bears are extremely protective, so avoid approaching, touching, or interacting with the cubs.
- Defend Yourself: If attacked, it is acceptable to throw objects at the bear, yell, and fight back.
- Secure Attractants: Always secure food, garbage, and other items that may attract bears.
- Travel in Groups: If hiking, travel in groups and keep small children close when bears are spotted.
Bear encounters, while often fascinating, serve as a reminder of the importance of being bear-aware in areas where humans and wildlife coexist. By following safety guidelines, residents and visitors can enjoy the beauty of nature without endangering themselves or the animals.
