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BEAR ENCOUNTERS
ENCOUNTERING A BEAR
Every encounter that happens between a human and a bear is different. When an encounter occurs there are a lot of different characteristics you need to look out for. There are two types of charges—bluff charges and aggressive charges. Being able to identify the charges will help to understand how to react in the moment. Regardless, bear spray is your best friend and can be used in any of these instances.
REport all bear encounters
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If you are involved with a bear conflict or encounter, report it to authorities as soon as possible. If you are in the park, notify a park ranger. If the conflict is serious and cell service is available, call 911.
There are three ways a bear can engage a human during an encounter: a bluff charge, an aggressive charge or predatory behavior.
Bluff vs. aggressive charges
bluff charges
Bluff charges are more common. This is when the bear intends to scare or intimidate you.
Identify bluff charges by:
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The bear has its head and its ears facing up and forward.
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The bear is trying to make themselves look larger and puff itself up
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The bear bounds in big moving leaps on its front paws toward you, but then stops short or changes direction to the side.
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Often bears retreat and vocalize loudly after a bluff charge.
What to do if a bear is about to bluff charge:
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Slowly back away while waving your arms above your head and speaking in a calm, low voice.
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Do NOT yell; the bear will think you are trying to attack back.
aggressive charges
Although less common, aggressive charges are much more dangerous.
Identify aggressive charges by:
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The bear is yawning or clacking their teeth
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The bear is giving warning signs such as pounding their front paws on the ground or huffing
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The bears heard is down and its ears are pointed back
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The bear will charge quickly and directly at you
What to do if a black bear is about to aggressive charge:
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Have your bear spray ready and know how to use it. Deploy it quickly.
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If the bear continues to attack, fight back with everything you have
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Direct your punches and kicks at the bears face if possible
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Use rocks, branches, or bear spray to defend yourself
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Do NOT play dead
What to do if a grizzly bear is about to aggressive charge:
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Play dead; You want to convince the bear you are not a threat
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Cover your head and neck with your hands and arms
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Lay flat on your stomach and spread your legs wide
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Keep your pack on if you have it; it can help protect you
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Stay still and don’t make noise
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Wait until you are sure the bear is gone before standing up again
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If the bear continues to attack, fight back with everything you have
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Have your bear spray ready and know how to use it. Deploy it quickly.
Sold out
PREDATORY BEHAVIOR
Predatory encounters are when a bear is stalking you like a predator.
This is different from a surprised or defensive bear; they are ready to attack.
What to do if you encounter a bear predator behavior:
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Try to seek shelter in a car or building; Do NOT run.
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Have your bear spray ready and know how to use it. Deploy it quickly.
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If the bear attacks, fight back with everything you have no matter the species.
TRASH TIPS
PETS & BEARS
BEAR HABITAT
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