What to do if you come upon a grizzly bear?

What to do if you come upon a grizzly bear?

Here’s what the experts say:

1. If you encounter a grizzly, do not run.
2. Avoid direct eye contact.
3. Walk away slowly, if the bear is not approaching.
4. If the bear charges, stand your ground (you cannot outrun it).
5. Don’t scream or yell.
6. If you have pepper spray, prepare to use it.

Will a grizzly bear chase you?

Just like dogs, bears have a predatory instinct to chase running animals — so running may only make the bear chase you. You’ll also want to avoid trying to climb a tree, as grizzly bears and black bears are also able to climb them.

What to do if a black bear approaches you?

Never run away from or approach him. Make yourself look as big as possible by spreading your arms or, better yet, a coat. Make as much noise as possible by yelling, banging pots and pans or using other noisemaking devices. If the bear approaches and you have bear spray, spray the bear as he approaches.

Can a grizzly bear kill a human?

They can be fatal and often hikers, hunters, fishers, and others in bear country take precautions against bear attacks. Stephen Herrero, a Canadian biologist, reports that during the 1990s, bears killed around three people a year in the U.S. and Canada, as compared to the 15 people killed every year by dogs.

Do you play dead with a bear?

If any bear attacks you in your tent, or stalks you and then attacks, do NOT play dead—fight back! This kind of attack is very rare, but can be serious because it often means the bear is looking for food and sees you as prey. It is used defensively to stop an aggressive, charging, or attacking bear.

Will a taser stop a bear?

There is evidence of police in Washington using a Taser on a small black bear, and while it certainly deterred the bear, it didn’t have the desired effect: Chandler said a police officer used a Taser on the bear. Bear spray has similar range, but disperses in a wider fog, so your chances are better.

How hard is it to kill a bear?

Bears are not hard animals to kill with a firearm or a bow. A well-hit bear won’t last long, however they are extremely unforgiving when hit marginally. In summary, only take broadside shots, prioritize getting two holes, aim about four to five inches back from the shoulder on a broadside bear, and don’t shoot too low.

What to do if you are attacked by a bear?

If the animal makes contact, curl up into a ball on your side, or lie flat on your stomach. Try not to panic; remain as quiet as possible until the attack ends. While in bear country, be aware that you may encounter a bear at any time. Be sure the bear has left the area before getting up to seek help.

What’s the best way to stay safe from bears?

Lay flat on your stomach with your hands clasped behind your neck. Spread your legs to make it harder for the bear to turn you over. Remain still until the bear leaves the area. Fighting back usually increases the intensity of such attacks.

What should you do if you surprise a brown bear?

If you surprise a grizzly/brown bear and it charges or attacks, do not fight back! Only fight back if the attack persists. Never run from a surprised bear because it can cause a predatory reaction from the bear. Do not try to climb a tree. You cannot outrun or out climb a bear.

What to do if you see a black bear?

What to do if you see a black bear is different. Don’t play dead unless it is a mother protecting her cubs. Instead “try to escape to a secure place or fight back.” Black bears are more likely to see playing dead as an opportunity for a chase-free meal. Carry bear spray and know how to use it.