In North America, there are two species of bear -- black and brown (which includes subspecies grizzly and Kodiak bears) -- but it is often difficult to distinguish between the two. Both types are known to attack humans,
and in the past century, approximately 100 people have died in North America due to bear attacks.
Grab your camera and get ready for an excursion into grizzly country. Check out this quiz from Animal Planet: Grizzly Safety Quiz |
1. Why Are You Here?
Avoid investigating dark, unknown caves or hollow logs, where bears make their dens, and avoid areas identified by scavengers, such as raccoons, as there may be a feeding bear nearby.
2. You're Kidding with the Camera, Right?
Leave pictures of bears to professional wildlife photographers. Many attacks have occurred because someone decided to try to snap a photo in bear territory. Bears don't like you, and they don't want their picture taken.
 Bear cubs may look cute and cuddly, but mama is usually nearby so stay away from the little ones. |
3. Whoa, Mama!
If you see a bear with a cub, leave quickly. A mother bear with her cubs is not open to negotiation. She will attack if she thinks she or her cubs are in danger.
4. Leave No Trace
If you're camping, pick up all garbage, cooking supplies, and other materials. Clean up thoroughly after meals, and secure food overnight high above the ground (by hanging it from a tree branch) to prevent it from attracting bears. Not only do sloppy campers damage the area's ecosystem, they're also more likely to come face-to-face with a bear that has followed their gravy train.
5. Keep a Lookout
As you hike through bear country, keep an eye out for claw marks or droppings, and note any scratched up trees or fresh kills, such as deer.
6. Raise a Ruckus, Ring a Bell
Some experts recommend tying a bell to your foot or backpack to make noise as you travel. You can also sing or holler at your hiking buddies. Just don't be a ninja. Bears don't like to be surprised.
7. Freeze! Stick 'Em Up!
Okay, so you've spotted a bear, and the bear has spotted you. Stop right there, and don't move. Speak to the bear in a low, calm voice, and slowly raise your arms up above your head. This makes you appear larger.
Humans and animals can share the great outdoors if everyone behaves accordingly. Get prepared with the tips on the next page.
