PHOTO BY SCOTT TEODORSKI
black bear feeding in the forest
Black bears are wild and their behavior is sometimes unpredictable. Although extremely rare, attacks on humans have occurred, inflicting serious injuries and death. Treat bear encounters with extreme caution and follow these guidelines:
If you see a bear, remain watchful. Do not approach it. If your presence causes the bear to change its behavior (stops feeding, changes its direction of travel, watches you, etc.) YOU ARE TOO CLOSE. Being too close may promote aggressive behavior from the bear such as running toward you, making loud noises, or swatting the ground. The bear is demanding more space. Don't run, but slowly back away, watching the bear. Try to increase the distance between you and the bear.
If a bear persistently follows or approaches you without vocalizing or paw swatting, try changing your direction. If the bear continues to follow you. stand your ground. If the bear gets closer, talk loudly or shout at it. Act aggresively and try to intimidate the bear. Act together as a group if you have companions. Make yourselves look as large as possible (for example, move to higher ground). Throw non-food objects such as rocks at the bear. Use a deterrent such as a stout stick. Do not run and do not turn away from the bear. Don't leave food for the bear, this encourages further problems.
