Video: Mama Bear Swims Across Lake To Rescue Cubs

Facebook / South Lake Tahoe Fire Firefighters Association

A mama bear in South Lake Tahoe, California is receiving praise for rescuing her three little bear cubs all on her own.

The South Lake Tahoe Firefighters were called to the scene when bystanders noticed that the three bear cubs were separated from their mom at a local marina.

When the firefighters got to the marina, they quickly realized that the mama bear had it all under control and she didn’t need help rescuing the cubs help after all. The mama bear had devised a plan to rescue and reunite with her cubs all on her own.

Facebook / South Lake Tahoe Fire Firefighters Association

She swam over to each cub individually and slowly encouraged them to jump into the water with her. Once the cubs jumped in, they climbed up on her back and held on tight while she swam back across to the other side of the land. Once she reached land, the mama bear pulled herself up and onto dry land where it was safe, while the cub hung on super tight so it wouldn’t lose its grip and fall back into the water. One by one she went back and forth to get her cubs and bring them to safety.

Facebook / South Lake Tahoe Fire Firefighters Association

In a Facebook post, the South Lake Tahoe Fire Fighters Association shared, “The mother bear was determined to save all three of her cubs herself and ensure that they see tomorrow by continually swimming each one to safety!” 

What a heartwarming and impressive display of natural instincts and motherhood!

Mama bears are heroes too!

Watch the video below.

Want to save this article?

Get this sent to your inbox, plus, get new articles & videos from us every week!

Sponsors / Partners


Interested in becoming a partner?

Contact us for more info

Unapologetically Country

Receive daily updates with the best country music videos, news, and more!