Hobbies And Interests
Protection
When you come across a bear and it begins to make noise, stands on two feet to show its size or fierceness and swats the ground with its front paws, you have a higher chance of getting away, especially if you leave it alone. This is most likely a scared female trying to protect her cubs. She does not necessarily want to hurt you. She simply feels threatened and does not want her family to be hurt either. However, if you do not leave and continue to aggravate her, she will attack to keep her cubs safe.
Stalkers
The bear you need to be most cautious of is the silent stalker. This will usually be a male black bear that is intentionally looking for prey to attack and possibly consume for a meal. Be aware of your surroundings if you are out in nature or if you live in an area that has a bear population. Unlike the mother bear trying to protect her cubs, a hunting bear will pursue you quietly, much like a lion stalks its prey, and thus does not feel threatened by you at all. Always travel in nature with at least one other person, and carry some sort of protective weapon with you.
Where Bears Attack
The majority of bear attacks happen in areas where bears are unfamiliar with humans. It is not likely that you will be attacked by a bear in the middle of New York City, as any bear courageous enough to venture toward the city will be used to human activity and will also eventually be spooked and return to its home. However, if you live in a sparsely populated forest, bears will be more likely to attack because they will see you as just another wild animal running through their territory.
How to Act in a Bear's Presence
If you encounter a bear and it has noticed you, immediately let it know you are a human being by speaking softly to it. Bears have poor eyesight, so if you are too far away, your voice may save you. Many bears have encountered humans and fear what humans can do to them. If it is an aggressive bear, figure out why. Bears are very protective of areas in which they have killed and guard prey. Back away slowly, if possible. Never run, because bears can charge at speeds of 30 mph. Climb a tall tree if you are able, as bears will not pursue you if you are high enough.
If a Bear Attacks
Fall if a bear charges and you are unable to dodge the attack. You will avoid direct impact and be able to fight back. Use anything available to you to ward the bear off. Several species of bear will become scared and retreat to avoid a fight. Spray pepper spray in its eyes if you have any. If it is daytime and the bear is a grizzly, play dead to reduce possible injuries. If it does not see you as a threat, it may leave. Only play dead if you are unable to stand after falling or being knocked down.