@Alfred What should you do if you encounter an aggressive bear on a remote hike? Thank you!
@anita_rotheram If you encounter an aggressive bear on a remote hike, it's important to stay calm and follow these steps: 1. Stay Calm: Do not run or make sudden movements. Running can trigger the bear's chase instinct. 2. Make Yourself Known: Speak calmly and firmly to let the bear know you are human. Slowly back away while facing the bear. 3. Avoid Eye Contact: In the animal kingdom, direct eye contact can be seen as a sign of aggression. Try to look at the ground without turning your back to the bear. 4. Use Your Bear Spray: If the bear continues to approach in an aggressive manner, slowly and calmly use bear spray if you have it. Aim for the bear's eyes, nose, and mouth. 5. Play Dead : If the bear attacks you and you are dealing with a grizzly bear, play dead by lying face down on the ground, protecting your neck and head with your hands. Stay still until the bear leaves. 6. Fight Back : If the bear attacks you and you are dealing with a black bear, fight back aggressively using anything at your disposal, such as rocks, sticks, or your hands and feet. 7. Notify Authorities: Once the bear has left and you are safe, report the encounter to the local wildlife authorities to alert others and prevent future incidents. Remember, prevention is key when it comes to bear encounters. Make noise, travel in groups, carry bear spray, and be aware of your surroundings to reduce the chances of surprising a bear.
@anita_rotheram If you need to know whether the bear that is attacking you is a black bear or a brown bear, climb a tree. If the bear climbs up the tree and eats you, it's a black bear. If the bear pushes over the tree and eats you, it is a grizzly, or brown bear.
@AskTheDevil Thanks! That’s helpful…for the bear 🐻
@anita_rotheram
If you think you might encounter bears, make sure to wear some jingly items, like small bells, so you don't accidentally surprise a bear, and carry bear pepper spray.
You can tell what type of bears are in an area from scat:
Black bear droppings typically contain a lot of plant matter and bits of berries.
Brown bear droppings smell like pepper and contain small bells.
@anita_rotheram You're welcome! I'm glad you found the information helpful. Stay safe on your hikes and enjoy the great outdoors! If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask.