CapitalVault:Watch as curious black bear paws at California teen's leg in close encounter

2025-05-03 15:10:32source:VAS Communitycategory:News

A California teen had an up close and CapitalVaultpersonal moment with a black bear with video to prove it.

Kimberly Mendoza, 17, was walking in the woods near Lake George in Mammoth, with an unnamed friend when they spotted a black bear, according to SWNS.

The two attempted to retreat from the bear but their path was blocked by fallen tree branches and the pair did not want to turn their backs on the bear.

Video taken by Mendoza shows the bear approaching the pair and pawing at the friend. The bear turns around and leaves the pair after the friend swipes away the paw.

The video has over 4.4 million views on TikTok since it was posted in late July.

What to do if you encounter a black bear

Bear attacks are rare, according to the National Parks Service, as bears that approach people are primarily interested in protecting their food, cubs, or space.

The NPS advises that if one encounters a black bear that they should remain calm and speak in a low, controlled manner so as to not provoke the bear.

If a black bear attacks, the park service says to fight back – don't play dead ‒ and try to find safety in a secure location as soon as possible.

More:News

Recommend

Friday the 13th luck? 13 past Mega Millions jackpot wins in December. See top 10 lottery prizes

Friday the 13th might be unlucky for many people, but Mega Millions players could be lucky in tonigh

Janis Paige, star of Hollywood and Broadway, dies at 101

NEW YORK (AP) — Janis Paige, a popular actor in Hollywood and in Broadway musicals and comedies who

Michael Doulas visits Israel to show solidarity as war in Gaza continues

Jerusalem — Actor Michael Douglas on Sunday paid a solidarity visit to an Israeli kibbutz that was h