minibear

plural minibears · alternative mini-bear

1. USslangA critter, or any animal that is smaller than a bear, that gets into a camper's food, pack, or tent.

   Almost any place worth camping in comes equipped with a full complement of night-foraging critters. Most are small, like chipmunks, but they are still worthy of the nickname "minibears."

   2005, Don Jacobson, One-Pan Gourmet Fresh Food On The Trail

   1 more example

   Poor Poncho had been nearly disemboweled during a mini-bear attack. Much of the colorful paper on his outside was ripped off and shredded. Apparently he was a true piñata and had some sweets on his insides.

   2010, Joseph Torlucci, Out In God's Country, Tonight - An Adult's Re-Experience of Philmont Scout Ranch, Cimarron, New Mexico

   Synonyms: microbear