Bear Encounter

Two black bears in an oak tree

NPS

 

Encounter a Bear?

If you’re involved in a conflict with a bear, regardless of how minor, call the park Wildlife Hotline at [phone], or report it to a park ranger as soon as possible. If cell service is available, dial 9-1-1. 

 

All of Big South Fork is bear habitat—from the backcountry to the parking areas around the visitor center. Prepare for bear encounters no matter where you go. Your safety is not guaranteed, but you can play an active role in protecting yourself and the bears people come here to enjoy.

 

If You Encounter A Bear

Black bears are secretive and shy creatures and naturally have no desire to interact with people and instinctively avoid humans. They have a keen sense of smell and in most cases will smell you long before you ever see them and will leave the area. If you are horseback riding, generally the noise of the horses will scare the bear away long before it is ever seen.

In the event you see a bear in the backcountry, do not become alarmed. If the animal is foraging for natural food, simply stand as still and quiet as possible, and take advantage of a rare opportunity.

Do not approach the bear, and do not let the bear approach you. If your presence causes the bear to change its behavior (stops feeding, changes direction of travel, 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. Increase the distance between you and the bear. The bear will likely do the same.

However, if a bear persistently follows or approaches you, without vocalizing, or paw swatting, change your direction. If the bear continues to follow you, stand your ground. If the bear gets closer, talk loudly or shout at it. Act aggressively 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 bear spray, or a stout stick. Don’t run and don’t turn away from the bear. Don’t leave food for the bear; this encourages further problems. If, however, the bear comes into your campsite, take a different approach. Any loud noise will most likely run the bear off, clanging pots and pans together, blowing a horn, and yelling and making yourself look larger would be appropriate actions.

 

Click here for an informative video on bear encounters

NPS