NexNews — If you find yourself hiking in bear country, knowing how to stay safe and how to respond to a bear encounter is essential. Bear attacks, though rare, do occur, and being prepared can make all the difference. Wildlife expert Beth Pratt shares her expertise on how to avoid bear encounters altogether and what actions to take if you find yourself in a potentially dangerous situation.
Understanding Bear Behavior: A Natural Approach
Beth Pratt, the California Regional Executive Director for the National Wildlife Federation, has years of experience working with bears, especially in places like Yellowstone and Yosemite National Parks. According to her, bears are generally not a threat to humans unless provoked or surprised. Most bears, she emphasizes, prefer to avoid human interaction.
Preventing Bear Encounters: Key Safety Tips
Autumn, when bears are in hyperphagia (the phase where they eat excessively to prepare for hibernation), is a critical time to be vigilant. Bears are more likely to be searching for easy food sources, and human food is particularly tempting. Pratt advises the following precautions:
- Stay on designated trails and avoid dense brush where bears might be feeding.
- Don’t approach bears—whether you see one from a distance or not. Always give them space.
- Keep food securely stored and avoid leaving food unattended.
- Talk or make noise while hiking to alert bears of your presence. This reduces the chance of surprising them.
What to Do if You Spot a Bear:
- Stay calm and avoid panicking.
- Don’t approach the bear—give it space and time to move away.
- If the bear starts moving towards you, make yourself look larger by raising your arms or using your jacket.
- Avoid direct eye contact, as this can be perceived as a challenge.
What to Do if a Bear Approaches Aggressively:
If a bear does become aggressive, your strategy will vary depending on whether it’s a black bear or a grizzly bear.
- Black Bear: Don’t run or play dead. Fight back if attacked by a black bear—aim for the face and try to make yourself intimidating.
- Grizzly Bear: If a grizzly attacks, play dead. Curl into a fetal position, cover your neck, and remain still until the bear loses interest.
Bear Identification:
Knowing the difference between a black bear and a grizzly is crucial. Here are some key identifiers:
- Grizzly Bears: Larger with a noticeable hump on their shoulders, and a dished face.
- Black Bears: Typically smaller with no shoulder hump, and a straighter face.
Bear Spray vs. Firearms:
While some hikers carry bear spray or firearms for protection, Pratt advises bear spray as the more effective and humane option. Bear spray has been shown to be highly successful in deterring bear attacks, and it doesn’t harm the bear permanently.
Camping Safely in Bear Country:
When camping, take extra precautions to keep bears away from your food. Always use bear-resistant food storage containers, and never store food in your tent or vehicle. If possible, keep food in sealed containers away from your campsite.
Conclusion: Respect, Not Fear
Beth Pratt encourages a balanced approach to living and recreating in bear country. “Bears are just being bears,” she says. “We are more of a threat to them than they are to us.” By respecting their space, staying informed, and following proper safety guidelines, you can ensure a safe and memorable experience in bear habitat.
