Encountering a bear in the wild can be both awe-inspiring and terrifying. These magnificent creatures command respect, and knowing how to react properly could mean the difference between a scary story to tell later and a dangerous situation. Whether you’re hiking through national parks or camping in bear country, understanding what NOT to do when face-to-face with a bear is essential knowledge for outdoor enthusiasts.
While this information is based on wildlife expert recommendations, every bear encounter is unique. These tips are general guidelines only. Always research specific bear safety protocols for your region before venturing into bear habitats.
1. Run Away Screaming
Bears can sprint up to 35 mph – much faster than humans. Running triggers their predatory instinct to chase, turning you into moving prey instantly.
Instead, stand your ground, speak calmly, and make yourself look bigger. Retreating slowly might be appropriate later, but never turn your back and dash.
2. Play Dead Too Early
Playing dead works only for defensive attacks, typically from grizzlies protecting cubs or food. With black bears or curious bears, this tactic might actually increase your danger.
First try standing tall, making noise, and showing you’re not prey. Save playing dead as a last resort when contact is imminent.
3. Approach Bear Cubs
Those adorable cubs mean mama bear is nearby – and nothing’s more dangerous than a mother protecting her young. She’ll perceive you as a threat regardless of your intentions.
Give cubs a wide berth, even if they seem alone or in distress. Mama bears defend their offspring with tremendous aggression and strength.
4. Take Selfies Or Photos
Fumbling with your phone or camera distracts you from monitoring the bear’s behavior and escape routes. Bears can close distance alarmingly fast while you’re focused on framing that perfect shot.
Your priority should be safety, not social media likes. Maintain awareness and respect the wild animal’s space and unpredictability.
5. Drop Your Backpack
Your pack can serve as an emergency barrier or distraction if needed. It also contains valuable survival supplies you might need if forced to detour.
Bears occasionally investigate packs out of curiosity, but they rarely see them as food sources unless you’re carrying unsealed edibles. Keep your resources with you during the encounter.
6. Make Direct Eye Contact
Bears interpret sustained eye contact as a challenge or threat. This aggressive signal might provoke an otherwise calm bear into defensive behavior.
Instead, keep the bear in your peripheral vision while appearing non-threatening. This shows respect while allowing you to monitor its movements without escalating the situation.
7. Feed The Bear
Offering food creates dangerous associations between humans and easy meals. Bears that learn this connection become “problem bears” that seek human encounters and often end up euthanized.
Human food also disrupts bears’ natural foraging behaviors and nutritional patterns. Keep food sealed in bear-proof containers far from your sleeping area.
8. Climb A Tree
Both black and grizzly bears excel at climbing trees – often better than humans. Black bears routinely scale trees to escape threats or gather food, while grizzlies can follow when motivated.
A tree provides false security while potentially cornering yourself with no escape route. Maintain ground-level options for creating distance between you and the bear.
9. Turn Your Back
Turning away removes your ability to track the bear’s behavior and respond appropriately. It might also trigger predatory instincts in certain situations.
Always back away slowly while facing the bear. This maintains visual contact while creating distance. Keep talking calmly to ensure the bear knows you’re human, not prey.
10. Panic And Forget Bear Spray
Bear spray is remarkably effective when used correctly, deterring bears in most confrontations. In moments of fear, many hikers forget they’re carrying this valuable tool.
Practice accessing and using your spray before hiking. Keep it readily available on your belt or pack strap, not buried deep in your backpack where panic might make it inaccessible.
