Bear breaks into ice cream shop, leaves after eyeing strawberry flavour in California

South Lake Tahoe residents were treated to an unusual sight this week when a curious bear wandered into a local ice cream shop and made itself comfortable behind the counter.

The El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office released photos of the surprising break-in, showing the bear standing tall near the register as if it were about to take an order.

Deputies said the animal entered the shop in search of a sweet treat and lingered long enough to inspect the offerings.

“With some encouragement, the bear ultimately left, but only after showing interest in the strawberry ice cream,” the sheriff’s office wrote in a lighthearted Facebook post.

No injuries were reported during the incident, though the shop owners and deputies reminded the public that wildlife encounters, while often amusing, highlight the ongoing challenge of living in close proximity to bears in the Tahoe Basin.

Residents and businesses are urged to secure food sources and remain cautious, as bears are known to be drawn into towns by the smell of human food and treats.

The sheriff’s office concluded its post with a touch of humor, assuring the community that while the bear had good taste in ice cream, it wasn’t allowed to stay for dessert.