Sharing Yosemite with Wildlife
One of the things that makes Yosemite National Park so extraordinary is that it isn’t simply a beautiful place to visit—it’s home to an incredible variety of wildlife. From black bears, mountain lions and mule deer to coyotes, bobcats, squirrels, birds, and countless other species, these animals are an important part of Yosemite’s natural ecosystem. Seeing wildlife during your wedding day can be an unforgettable experience. Watching a deer quietly cross a meadow or hearing a raven call from the granite cliffs often becomes part of the memories couples cherish most. The key is remembering that we’re visitors in their home.
Keep Wildlife Wild
One of Yosemite’s most important messages is simple: A fed bear is a dead bear.
Yosemite National Park is home to 300–500 American black bears, most of which are brown in color rather than black. The average adult male weighs about 250 pounds and the average adult female about 150 pounds. When bears become accustomed to finding food from people, they lose their natural behaviors and may begin approaching vehicles, campsites, lodging areas, and visitors in search of an easy meal.
Unfortunately, bears that repeatedly obtain human food sometimes become dangerous and may ultimately have to be relocated—or, in rare cases, euthanized. By storing food properly and following park regulations, each of us plays an important role in helping keep Yosemite’s bears wild and healthy.
Red Bear-Dead Bear
One of the most visible bear management tools is the “Red Bear-Dead Bear” signage. To minimize collisions between cars and wildlife in Yosemite National Park, an education initiative began in 2007. The red bear program aims to increase visitor awareness of the high frequency of vehicle-animal collisions, to encourage visitors to be aware of wildlife along roadsides, and to observe posted speed limits. Typically a dozen or more black bears are killed or maimed each year by vehicles; in 2010, 28 vehicle-bear collisions were reported. “Red Bear-Dead Bear” signs mark vehicle-bear collision sites as part of an education effort to encourage drivers to slow down.
Proper Food Storage
Never leave food, drinks, coolers, pet food, toiletries, or anything with a scent inside an unattended vehicle unless it’s stored according to National Park regulations. Even items you might not think of—lip balm, sunscreen, gum, baby formula, protein bars, or empty food wrappers—can attract a bear’s incredible sense of smell.
If you’re bringing snacks, beverages, or a picnic to enjoy after your ceremony, be sure they’re properly stored until you’re ready to use them.
If You See a Bear
Seeing a black bear in Yosemite is often an exciting experience. If you encounter one, remain calm and give it plenty of space. Never approach a bear for a photograph or attempt to feed it. If the bear is aware of your presence, speak calmly, make yourself appear larger if necessary, and slowly back away while allowing the bear plenty of room to continue on its way. In nearly every case, Yosemite’s black bears are simply interested in finding natural food and avoiding people whenever possible.
It’s More Than Just Bears
Although black bears receive the most attention, Yosemite is home to many other wild animals. Please don’t feed squirrels, birds, deer, or any other wildlife. Animals that become dependent on people for food often lose their natural behaviors, and human food can be harmful to their health. Watching wildlife behave naturally is far more rewarding than encouraging animals to approach us.
Protect Yourself—and the Park
Simple actions can make a big difference.
- Keep food and scented items properly stored.
- Dispose of trash in designated bear-resistant containers.
- Never feed wildlife.
- Observe animals from a respectful distance.
- Keep children close when wildlife is nearby.
- Follow all National Park regulations regarding wildlife encounters.
These small choices help protect both visitors and the animals that call Yosemite home.
My Personal Thoughts
One of the things I appreciate most about Yosemite is that every visit feels a little different. Some days I may see, or hear, a peregrine falcon soaring above the valley. Other days a family of deer quietly wanders through a meadow, or a black bear appears in the distance, reminding me that this landscape is still wonderfully wild. Those encounters are part of what makes Yosemite so special. My hope is that every couple who gets married here leaves with incredible memories—and with the satisfaction of knowing they helped preserve this remarkable place for future generations. If we all do our part by respecting wildlife and caring for the park, Yosemite will continue inspiring couples for generations to come.