The Tahoe Bear

Lake Tahoe’s Bear 717 was euthanized in July 2025 by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) after years of persistent, aggressive behaviors including repeated home break-ins and property damage. Identified by its ear tag, the 400-pound bear was found with severe health issues, including rotted teeth, likely a result of consuming human food and trash. The incident highlights the growing human-bear conflict in the region and the importance of public responsibility in securing attractants to maintain bear safety and prevent future conflicts. 

Background of Bear 717

• History of Conflict:Bear 717 was a well-known black bear in the Lake Tahoe Basin with a long history of aggressive behavior, including property damage and home invasions. 
• Failed Attempts to Control:CDFW officials tried multiple methods, including hazing and trapping, but the bear was often “trap shy,” avoiding capture. 
• Health Deterioration:Post-mortem examination revealed the bear had severely rotted teeth and was underweight, a condition often seen in bears that rely on human food sources. 

Euthanization

• Triggering Incident:On July 7, 2025, CDFW responded to a report of the bear inside a home in the Meeks Bay community, confirming it was Bear 717. 
• Decision to Euthanize:Due to the bear’s extensive history of dangerous behavior, risk to public safety, and ongoing property damage, CDFW authorized its lethal removal. 
• Research and Disposal:The bear’s skull was collected for scientific and educational purposes, and its carcass was left to decompose naturally in the forest, later being relocated to prevent future human encounters. 

Broader Implications

• Human-Bear Conflict:Bear 717’s case underscores the increasing challenge of human-bear conflict in Lake Tahoe, with bears becoming bolder in seeking food from human sources.