If you encounter a black bear or brown bear (grizzly) in the wild, it’s important to stay calm and take steps to minimize the risk of an attack. Here are some general guidelines on bear safety:
Before the Encounter:
- Be Aware: In bear country, make noise while hiking (talk, sing, clap) to avoid surprising a bear. Carry bear spray and know how to use it properly.
- Know Your Bears: Some responses you may take will vary depending on the type of bear your encounter. Here’s our quick rundown on the differences between black bears and brown (grizzly) bears.
If You See a Bear:
- Stop and Assess: Identify the type of bear and the distance between you. If it’s a close encounter (less than 50 yards for black bears, less than 100 yards for grizzlies), remain calm and slowly back away.
- Don’t Run: Running can trigger the bear’s chase instinct. Instead, slowly back away while facing the bear.
- Make Yourself Look Big: Stand tall, spread your legs, and raise your arms above your head. If you have a jacket, hold it open to appear larger.
- Speak in a Calm Voice: Talk to the bear in a firm, low voice. This helps the bear recognize you as a human and avoid feeling threatened.
If the Bear Charges:
- Fight Back (Grizzly Bears Only): If a grizzly bear charges, stand your ground and fight back with anything you have (bear spray, rocks, sticks) to defend yourself. Grizzly bear attacks are often defensive in nature, and fighting back can deter the attack.
- Play Dead (Black Bears Only): If a black bear charges, curl up into a ball on your stomach, cover your head and neck with your hands, and stay still. Playing dead is a submissive posture that may appease the bear.
Important Note:
These are general guidelines and the specific actions you should take may vary depending on the situation. Always be aware of your surroundings in bear country and follow local recommendations for bear safety.
Here are some additional resources that you may find helpful:
- National Park Service – Bear Safety
- Yellowstone National Park – A Walk in the Woods
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service – Black Bear Encounters
