A 300-pound black bear was found dead after being trapped inside a vehicle for several days in Colorado Springs. The Denver Gazette reported that the bear likely entered the car while searching for food. Officer Travis Sauder from Colorado Parks and Wildlife stated that bears are capable of opening unlocked car doors. However, they often struggle to get out if a door closes behind them.
Typically, bears open car doors, grab food, and exit. Sometimes, the door shuts behind them, creating difficulties in escaping. This incident is part of a larger trend. Colorado is experiencing an uptick in bear sightings and conflicts this year.
“Treat your vehicle like a campsite by removing any attractants,” said Sauder. “Anything from pet food to snacks can draw bears.”
From January 1 to August 13, the Colorado Parks and Wildlife received 6,129 bear sighting and conflict reports. This figure nearly doubles last year’s 3,115 reports for the same period. The 2023 numbers have exceeded the total 2025 reports of 5,299.
Wildlife officials attribute this rise to poor natural food conditions. Low snowpack and late freezes have limited bears’ usual food sources. As a result, bears travel more to find sustenance. This pursuit becomes pressing during hyperphagia, when bears bulk up before winter.
Officials recommend residents in bear areas eliminate food sources and other attractions. Keeping cars clean is key, removing items like food and scented products. Offering food to bears encourages them to approach humans, heightening risks. Sauder emphasizes this year could see record bear-human interactions reported since digital tracking began in 2019.