There are 2 common viewpoints when it comes to bears. Cute and cuddling or aggressive and mean. The reality is Black Bears can be both. They are curious, playful creatures but can be dangerous in certain situations.
We have encountered Black Bears several times. While driving, hiking on trails, and even one wandering into our camp. Understanding how to react to these beautiful animals can determine the outcome of an encounter.
Avoidance is Best
The best prevention to bear conflict is avoiding them all together.
Keep food locked away. When a bear discovers a source of food, it remembers the location and will return, even a year later. This is especially problematic for campgrounds.
The bear will also learn to associate food with humans. This expectation can lead to a frustrated and aggressive bear in future encounters with humans. Keeping food locked up will not only prevent a conflict with you but also future conflicts for others.
Be Loud. When hiking, make noise, have a conversation. This will alert any nearby bears that you are in the area and give them time to avoid you. A surprised bear will often act defensively.
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources has a great video on helpful tips on general avoidance of Black Bears.
What To Do In A Bear Encounter
Stay calm and don’t run. Running will encourage chase and humans cannot outrun bears.
Identify the species of bear. Different bear species require different responses. In Michigan, we only have Black Bear.
Back away slowly. If the bear has not reacted to you, head back down the trail slowly until out of sight. Give the bear time to move along and make noise to let the bear know you are coming, or choose a different route altogether.
Be Intimidating. If the bear has taken an interest in you, it may charge. Make lots of noise and wave your arms. The goal is to persuade the bear that you are dangerous.
Stand Your ground. With Black Bear, it is important to hold your ground. Even if the bear charges. Black Bears are known for bluff charging to test you. They may also click their jaws and paw at the ground.
Leave the area. Once the bear backs away, leave the area quickly (without running). Respect the Black Bear’s space.
With the bear who wandered into our camp, we simply had to tell it to go away. In one of the ones we encountered on the trail, we had to be more persuasive. Every encounter is different.
In the rare case of an aggressive bear, this method may not be successful. It is important to have your 2nd line of defense easily accessible for a quick response.
Respect Their Space
I can’t emphasize this enough. The best prevention of conflict is avoidance. Respect their space and remember that this is their home.