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Gum, Mints, Wrappers, Soda Attract Bears To Unlocked Vehicles

JEFFERSON COUNTY, Colo. (CBS4)- Another case of a bear stuck inside a vehicle in Colorado's mountains has wildlife officials warning drivers to lock their doors and empty all food containers.

The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office posted a video on Twitter of a bear stuck inside a vehicle in Conifer near Pleasant Park/High Grade on Monday.

Deputies were able to open the driver's side door with a cable and the bear ran away. But the animal left behind a big mess!

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(credit: Jefferson County)

The bear had trashed the inside of the vehicle.

car copy bear
(credit: Jefferson County)

Colorado Parks and Wildlife says that Hyperphagia, the snackiest time of year for bears, is approaching.

car2 copy bear
(credit: Jefferson County)

That means bears will sniff out and try to eat anything, even food wrappers, gum, mints and half-finished soda bottles.

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(credit: Jefferson County)

Bears are smart enough to open car doors but typically get stuck inside and destroy the vehicle while trying to figure a way out.

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(credit: Jefferson County)
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