What should you do if you encounter a bear while hiking?
What should you do if you encounter a bear?
Generally speaking, there is no set of tips for how to deal with bears. After all, every encounter is different, and every bear is different, and how you react when you encounter a bear is different. Measures will definitely affect your chances of surviving unscathed.
● If you see a bear from a distance
You can enjoy the rare beauty for a moment and then take a long detour to avoid the bear, if possible. It's best to walk downwind so bears can't pick up your scent. And try to avoid the sight of the bear, and make a metallic sound along the way to let the bear know you are there, and then leave the place quickly, but don't run!
● If you see a bear on or near a trail
Stand still, immediately whip out your pepper spray (if you have one), and of course move away if possible But if the terrain restricts you from taking a detour, please walk a few hundred meters back along the path, rest for a while and then turn back, making metal noises as you go. When you return to your original position, the bear may have disappeared from your sight! If the bear remains, you may want to consider delaying or abandoning the trip.
● If you see a bear within a short distance
The most important thing is not to panic, run and scream. Running and other sudden movements can lead to bear attacks. The first thing is to do nothing - don't make any sudden movements or make sudden sounds. Stand quietly with your pepper spray ready, and then take a few seconds to carefully assess the situation, including looking around for bears, detecting escape routes, etc., before deciding on your next step. As long as you keep a cool head and don't lose control, you have an excellent chance of leaving the encounter with vivid memories rather than damage.
Of course, try to tell whether a bear is simply curious or truly aggressive. Watch for signs of aggressive behavior from bears, such as ears turned back, fur on the back and neck raised in a combative posture, head shaking rapidly from side to side, threatening "Woo!" sounds, or thumping of the feet. Slap the ground. If a bear grinds its teeth together and makes a loud "snap" sound, it means it is very restless and likely to attack.
If a bear stands up on its two hind legs and raises its muzzle, this is not a sign of aggression. The bear may just want to scare you and see the pain on your face. expression.
Shows of aggressive behavior can be a clue that the bear just wants to warn you to stay away from its territory. You'd better do it obediently. Any bear that comes toward you should be considered an attack. Drop a heavy backpack, extra clothes, camera, water bottle, stumble or delay the bear, but never drop a bag of food. You always Don't want to leave a food reward behind for the bear that's chasing you.
When retreating, it is usually best to walk backwards slowly, speak softly in a monotone voice, avoid sudden movements, do not turn your back to the bear, do not kneel down, and act unafraid Keep your posture and submissive attitude, avoid looking directly at the bear, and slowly move your arms up and down when retreating.