Raising children can be both fun and frustrating at all times of the year, but even the thought of summer has some parents seething with dread. It can be costly and exhausting to keep kids entertained 24/7 while they’re out of school, but parents can take comfort in knowing that they’re not alone.
So many hardworking parents are in the same boat, including one black bear mom! She was spotted swimming in Quabbin Reservoir in Massachusetts on June 27, but it was her cubs that had everyone talking. While the mama bear paddled her way across the water, the tiny bear cubs hitched a ride on her back!
A fishing enthusiast named Izzy posted this priceless sight on TikTok, where it instantly rose to viral fame. Few people have seen a bear carrying her cubs on her back before, let alone while swimming!
@izzydr1 Me and my buddy John were bass fishing, and saw this Momma Bear swimming to an Island with her cubs sitting on her back for the ride. A once in a lifetime thing to see. #blackbear #blackbears #blackbearsswimming #blackbearcubs #fishing #wildlife #bassfishing #quabbinreservoir #massachusetts
Wow, imagine seeing this during a quiet day of fishing! If I’d seen this with my own eyes, I’m not sure I’d even believe myself. Seeing a bear swimming so leisurely is rare enough, but a bear swimming with her cubs is truly magical!
It may be special to witness this mom’s selfless actions, but this poor black bear hardly looks like she’s making any progress across the reservoir. Those bear cubs must be so heavy! Regardless, this sweet mama will go above and beyond to get her babies to the right spot.
Related: Lake Tahoe Photographer Catches Black Bear Going for a Leisurely Swim in the Sun
One commenter had the right idea when they wrote, “Another momma bear swims by and says, ‘Looks like you have your hands full.'” At least other parents can commiserate with this mother’s hard work and dedication!
“They had to swim because Ubear was too expensive,” another commenter joked. These rideshare prices are getting ridiculous! Luckily for these cubs, though, they have a mom who’s determined to get them to the island one way or another.
Bears in Massachusetts
The only type of bear found in Massachusetts is the black bear, just like the bear family in this video. Black bears can be found across North America in forest and mountainous landscapes, but due to habitat loss, they can sometimes venture into populated areas, too.
Another viewer “Saw 10 bald eagles there in one day. It’s hard to believe you’re in Massachusetts when you are there.” That sounds magical!
For many people, Massachusetts is synonymous with Boston and New England suburbia, but this adorable bear encounter is the perfect reminder that it has plenty of flora and fauna, too!
Looking for more PetHelpful updates? Follow us on YouTube for more entertaining videos.
Or, share your own adorable pet by submitting a video, and sign up for our newsletter for the latest pet updates and tips.