Black bears invade Lake Tahoe homes as break-ins surge and locals fortify defenses

Black bears are increasingly breaking into homes around Lake Tahoe, with South Lake Tahoe police reporting 174 bear-related calls this year compared to 97 last year. Residents, including Margaret Deanesly Ziegler who spent $7,500 on bear-proofing measures, are installing electric mats, reinforced doors, and steel doors to deter wildlife. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife advises using bear-proof containers and electric fencing to reduce conflicts.