Bear cools off in backyard pool

A black bear looking for relief from the summer heat surprised a Colorado homeowner by taking a refreshing dip in a small backyard swimming pool meant for dogs.

The unusual incident happened in the Steamboat Springs area where a local woman spotted the bear enjoying the cool water on the back deck of her home.

She later shared a video showing the animal sitting comfortably in the pool and splashing around to escape the high temperatures.

The homeowner explained that the small pool had been filled with water for her dogs.  Instead of being upset she said she was happy that the bear found a safe way to cool down during

The hot weather.

The video quickly caught people’s attention online with many viewers calling the scene both adorable and unexpected.

Wildlife experts however remind residents to enjoy such moments from a safe distance and never approach or

feed wild animals.

The visit did not come as a complete surprise. Earlier this summer Colorado Parks and Wildlife warned that ongoing dry conditions and drought could lead to more bear sightings across the state.

As natural food and water sources become harder to find bears are more likely to enter neighborhoods in search of food water or a cool place to rest.

According to the department 98 bear sightings had already been reported by the end of April.

By comparison the total number of reported sightings across Colorado during all of 2025 was 127 showing that encounters with bears are becoming more common.

Wildlife officials advise residents to remove anything that might attract bears including unsecured garbage pet food bird feeders and outdoor food.

They also recommend keeping a safe distance if a bear is spotted and reporting unusual wildlife activity to local authorities when necessary.

As heat waves continue across many parts of the United States experts say wild animals are also affected by extreme temperatures.

Bears like many other animals search for cool water and shaded areas to stay comfortable sometimes leading them into residential neighborhoods.

The Colorado bear’s unexpected swim serves as a reminder that wildlife is also trying to cope with the summer heat.