Fight or play dead

[Deleted]

I have to say, that walking in the woods with bears and wolves seem to be way more dramatic in the USA than here where I live. I wonder if Canada has similar kind of habits with guns and bear sprays.

I guess, that  bear spray can be good, but when I go walking in the forest I avoid taking any unnecessary weight. The best way to avoid bear attack, in my opinion, is to first learn about big predators and how they behave etc. and only after enough knowledge, going in the woods, where is wildlife. Hunting when snow is still on the ground, but bears starting to wake up from hibernation can be risky, I guess. Here bear attacks happen mostly, when hunters disturb bears in their dens during such times. It´s very risky situation.

Still here many people spend time in the woods picking berries, mushrooms or just spending time hiking. And no-one carries a gun and no bear sprays. There are no similar videos here, when looking at these from USA with guns and bear sprays. But here in schools is taught to all some basic knowledge about predators living here, which have potential to be dangerous to people. Then again here only bears and wolves are such animals. Lynxes and wolverine live here too, but they can be considered harmless to people. 

When I go to the woods, I think that with wolves I sometimes wonder how a pack of wolves might behave in some surprising situation. What comes to brown bears (we don´t have black bears) I sometimes think, that it might be quite something (My close relative was once 3 meters from a bear, she managed to cycle silently and get by accident so close to a bear before she noticed it and it her. Luckily bear just snorted and turned away walking to the forest. After that she started always to sing or whistle while cycling on the forest road ).

I often wonder, that are bears in North-America so different than bears here or is it more about it, that hunters would need to learn more about bear behavior. One Finnish person, who has dozens bear encounters in the wood (no gun or bear spray with him) said in one video, that what kind of "bearmen" are hunters who hunt bears, if taking away hunting dogs and guns, they wouldn´t be at all interested about bears. That´s rough translation, but it was quite clear critic towards knowledge of many hunters, what comes to it, that how bears behave. And it´s true. Some hunters just let dogs loose and then follow them and when they have chased the bear to the tree or otherwise keeping it still, they just shoot it. But if they should go to the forest without dogs and gun, many wouldn´t know almost anything about bears. 

For instance how to avoid them if not wanting to see one, or how to have best possibility see one, if wanting to film or get a photo of a wild bear.

Anyway, I like to walk in the woods without guns or sprays, so I try to take with me knowledge and common sense. It´s one reason why I´m so interested about animal behavior.

[Deleted]

I find for instance this video very good and with good information, this woman seems to know bears quite good. She obviously prefers bear spray and no gun.




This is from Canada, also good information for ordinary people, imo. Also bear spray. In some way I find that bear spray interesting because I have no idea if those are even sold here. Might be, but I have never even thought to get such. It might be good though. There are 1-2 bears every year in the area, where I spend time in the forest. But I´m too lazy to get bear spray to be honest, even if some place would sell those here, I take the risk

[brobear]

If I were to venture into brown bear country, I would carry bear spray in a holster. Before I go, providing this is a well planed trip, I would purchase an extra canister to practice with to make sure there is no guesswork on how to use it should I actually need it. ( IMO ), better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.

Of course, I have spent an untold huge amount of hours walking around in black bear country with seldom even a thought about them being there.

[tom]

Bear spray IMO is the preferred method for deterring a Bear charge. One... you don't need to be as accurate as a gun. Even when under duress and you are an accomplished firearms expert, making a lethal shot to stop a charging Bear who will be on you in seconds is marginal at best. Even with the Bear spray you may get knocked down but if the spray was done correctly it will be very uncomfortable for the Bear to continue as his sense of smell is very sensitive.

Even when you seemingly do all the correct things as the man who was mauled in the video did, on any given day with any given Bear, their intent to stop the perceived threat they think you pose, a charge may still happen. Personally, Bears that are used to seeing People seem to be the ones who have the least fear. In Alaska Bears see people all the time in the National parks. Some people think it's ok to try and get close too them and god forbid even try to feed them. I believe every Bear depending on their comfort level has a different space that they feel where they may or may not feel threatened. With some that maybe only a few feet while others may be much more. Sows with Cubs are a touchy subject as I know of no other animal who is more protective of their offspring as a sow Grizzly. But here again she has her space and if you get inside that space or for what ever reason you project the wrong body language she is going to react.

The ability to stay calm is imperative, unfortunately with the average Joe who is very inexperienced in being in Bear country their first instinct is to run and or do all the WRONG things and that's when things go bad. 

[OldGreenGrolar]

Agreed. Most people who do not understand bears run forgetting an ursine can easily catch them.

[brobear]

social.thefw.com/s/navy-seal-bear-advice?as=6dap23849133629490649&utm_source=fb&utm_campaign=6dap23849133629490649&utm_medium=&fbclid=IwAR32PQ1IaD7_tguWHyZ2PvRAqxjxcCowKFDBWLibsmF3b5u1TVZilPu_-v8&bdk=0

Navy SEAL Revealed Exactly What To Do If Ever Faced With A Bear.

A wild bear approaches you. You’re pee-in-your-pants terrified. What do you do? Do you run for the hills? Do you punch it on the nose? Or do you simply say your prayers? Well, after reading this article, you’ll know precisely which action will make matters worse – and which will save your life. That’s because former Navy SEAL Clint Emerson has the answers.

Their natural habitat.

Seeing animals in their natural habitats can provide hugely rewarding experiences, of course. What could be better than witnessing creatures in the most unaffected environments? Yet we do have to be aware of the dangers that could come in such surroundings – especially if the animals in question can hurt us. And as you can guess, bears definitely fall into this category.

Signs of aggression.

So there are certain signs that you should look out for if a bear gets too close to you. For instance, when the hulking animal signals its intent to attack, it could growl and pad the ground with its paws. And in addition to that, the omnivore will likely also lower its head as well as reposition its ears.

Life-saving knowledge.

These encounters can happen for many reasons, too. Bears are usually unsure of people when they first spot them, you see. But this will change quickly if they feel threatened – or if the animals see the humans as prey. So Emerson’s advice could, therefore, prove crucial.

Staying alert.

But where are these encounters likely to happen? Well, for those of us who love the great outdoors, there are few things more enjoyable than spending time in a national park. These locations – from Yosemite to Yellowstone – are some of the most eye-catching in the United States. Yet while these surroundings are certainly idyllic, visitors will have to stay alert for any sightings of bears.

Three main types.

In America, after all, we’re likely to spot three main types of bears out in the wild. These are brown bears, black bears and polar bears. The last of these are usually found in colder climates, of course. But the other two species roam around different areas of the country.

[brobear]

Navy SEAL Revealed Exactly What To Do If Ever Faced With A Bear - continued:

Meet the black bear.

For example, black bears are scattered across the United States, living in states such as Tennessee, Alaska and North Carolina. The animals are also situated in both Yellowstone and Yosemite, so visitors can get a closer look at them. But given the size of these bears, some people will no doubt try their best to avoid them.

Little-known fact.

Black bears can weigh up to 500 pounds in their natural habitats, after all. Yet despite their imposing frames, most of these animals are vegetarian and seek out food such as nuts and fruit. Interestingly, in 2016, Emerson made an important observation about the black bear species.

Published works.

As we mentioned earlier, Emerson used to be a member of the Navy SEALs. In fact, he dedicated over two decades of his life to the force. Then, after retiring, the former soldier wrote a book titled 100 Deadly Skills: Survival Edition, which was published in the fall of 2016. And in that publication, he touched upon the dangers of bear encounters.

Lucky encounter.

Regarding black bears, Emerson wrote, “If you run into a black bear on a mountain trail, be grateful for your good fortune. Compared to polar bears and brown bears, black bears are much less likely to attack.” But that’s not to say that these creatures won’t go on the offensive if they think you’re a threat. It’s always best to be careful – and prepared.

[brobear]

Navy SEAL Revealed Exactly What To Do If Ever Faced With A Bear - continued:

Meet the brown bear.

As for brown bears, though, they’re far more volatile than their vegetarian counterparts. And much like black bears, this species can be found in Yellowstone – while sightings have also been made in Glacier National Park. In addition to that, a large number of the animals are situated across Alaska and Canada.

Land dwellers.

Interestingly, in terms of appearance, there are two variations of brown bears that live in the wild. The first kind are simply referred to as “brown bears,” and they can weigh as much as 1,000 pounds. But while these animals stick to the coastlines, the other subspecies make their home on land.

Six feet and up.

Yes, the second species – known as “grizzlies” – aren’t as large as browns, weighing up to 700 pounds. But alongside their incredible mass, grizzly bears can reach heights of over six feet, which only adds to their intimidating look. That’s not all, though – as we’re about to find out.

Strong claws.

You see, one of the other defining features of grizzly bears is the muscle found around their shoulders. They’re famous for their dangerously sharp claws and strong jaws, too. And given those physical attributes, this subspecies of brown bears is an omnivore – meaning it will consume anything from plant life to meat.

They need a reason.

Just like the black bear, though, grizzlies probably won’t attack you without reason. Yet these animals are known to be quite aggressive. This is especially true if you display any kind of threatening behavior in their presence. But even so, grizzly bears present a very different proposition to polar bears – for significant reasons.

[brobear]

Navy SEAL Revealed Exactly What To Do If Ever Faced With A Bear - continued:

The biggest bears.

You see, polar bears are found in the Arctic Circle, which covers some of northern Alaska. And compared to the other two species of bear, these beautiful creatures are massive – weighing to up to 1,500 pounds. Due to their environment, too, polar bears get their sustenance from meat, including hunting down seals on the ice.

Viable food source.

And as you can imagine, polar bears don’t see humans all that often, unlike the black and brown bears. So while the latter two bears can be wary of people thanks to previous contacts, that isn’t usually the case for their Arctic counterparts. In fact, polar bears could view us as a viable food source should they ever come across us.

Quite formidable indeed.

Emerson even touched upon polar bears’ willingness to go after people in his 2016 book. The former Navy SEAL wrote, “Polar bears are always hungry. And unlike black and brown bears, polar bears will actively track and hunt down humans across their arctic terrain. Their massive height and heft make them formidable opponents.”

Threatening claws.

“Polar bears are capable of disemboweling prey with a single swipe of their claws,” Emerson added. Yet despite the threat that these three bear species can pose, attacks aren’t as frequent as you might think. Up until 2016, in fact, Yellowstone had only registered eight fatalities related to bears since it first opened in 1872. But that doesn’t necessarily tell the full story.

[brobear]

Navy SEAL Revealed Exactly What To Do If Ever Faced With A Bear - continued:

Sightings on the rise.

Emerson discussed more recent bear encounters and their changing nature in 100 Deadly Skills: Survival Edition. The former SEAL explained, “Human-bear interactions have become increasingly frequent, as various regulations and conservation efforts have swelled the bear population across North America. Black bear sightings are particularly on the rise.”

Not too common these days.

Emerson continued, “Fortunately, bear attacks are very rare in general. You have a one in 2.1 million chance of being mauled, which means that almost any routine daily activity has a greater chance of killing you. But activities such as bow-hunting for elk in the mountains of Montana or backpacking in the Yellowstone range will significantly increase your risk of a lethal attack.”

Common precautions.

So if that figure doesn’t put your mind at ease while you’re in the great outdoors, keep in mind that there are ways to avoid bears. For example: try to steer clear of noisy beds of water as the hulking animals could be lurking in those areas. And that’s not the only precaution you can take.

Staying in groups.

It’s advised, for instance, that you should travel in groups when moving through “bear country,” as the animals stay away from large gatherings. You should make plenty of noise, too, because this tells the bears that you’re not sneaking into their domains. The quieter you are, then, the bigger the risks.

Food draws their attention.

If you’re camping outside, you also need to be very wary when preparing food. Unsurprisingly, you see, any bears in the area will be attracted by the smell of grub – so you should take some precautions. Emerson confirmed this in his book, even listing off a few instructions that could prove crucial.

Keen sense of smell.

“Bears have a formidable sense of smell,” wrote Emerson. “So when you’re stopped for the night, follow the common-sense strategies of double-bagging and hanging your food. Place food, cookware and utensils at least 100 feet from your tent, and never set up camp near bear scat or tracks.” His advice didn’t end there, either.

Hide your scents.

Emerson added, “Store any scented products (toothpaste, soap) with food and cooking supplies. Do not sleep in the same clothing you cooked in, as food scents may remain on the fibers.” So by following all of these steps, you should be able to keep the smell of nearby food to a minimum. Yet that still might not be enough to deter a curious bear.

Bear spray.

To ensure your safety, then, it might be an idea to purchase some “bear spray” ahead of any trips into the wild. According to Emerson, this substance is the go-to tool to protect yourself from the animals – instead of a firearm. But the former soldier also revealed what you should do if a bear starts to get too close.

Last resorts.

As the ex-SEAL explained, “Wave your arms around and make noise. Often this strategy will make bears stop in their tracks and run off. But, if the bear charges you, this is the moment to use the bear spray... Dispense the bear spray when the bear is within 40 feet.” Or, if you did bring along a firearm, Emerson recommends that you “aim your rifle sights at a spot below its chin.”

Testing your prowess.

In certain situations, though, the bear could just be testing you out with a fake charge. And if you’re wondering why it would do that, it’s because the creature may just be looking to gauge whether you’re a real threat to its safety. When this happens, you have to stay perfectly still – as the bear could choose to leave you alone anyway.

Playing dead.

Unfortunately, though, there’s a possibility that the bear won’t stop charging. So you need to be prepared for what comes next. After all, the creature might well knock you down to the ground and begin an attack. And if it does, you’ve apparently got to try your best to fool it by “playing dead.”

Life-saving advice.

As Emerson explained in 100 Deadly Skills: Survival Edition, “If the bear attacks, most experts agree that this is the moment to lie down and play dead. You want to convince the bear that it has done its job and effectively minimized the perceived threat you posed. Lay flat on your stomach to protect your organs, crossing your hands behind your neck to guard your arteries.”

75% chance.

As Emerson emphasized, playing dead apparently works 75 percent of the time. And the retired Navy SEAL offered another suggestion, too, for when you’re pretending to be out of it. He added, “You could also, curl into the fetal position, covering the back of your neck with your hands.”

Fight or flight response.

But if you do spot a bear from a distance, there’s one piece of advice that you must follow – regardless of how you feel. When a person is threatened, you see, their fight-or-flight response kicks in. In many cases, the individual will naturally want to get away as quickly as possible to avoid danger.

Never turn your back on a bear.

But when it comes to bears, you have to be mindful of how you flee the area. As Emerson said in his book, “Never turn your back on a bear, and never try to run. Both of these actions can kick-start a bear’s predatory reflexes. And you’ll never be able to outrun a bear, as the animals can travel at up to 30 miles per hour.”

[brobear]

Navy SEAL Revealed Exactly What To Do If Ever Faced With A Bear - continued:

Alternative to running.

So you might be wondering how to escape before the bear gets too close for comfort. And, fortunately, Emerson came up with another solution. He also suggested that this is your best bet. He wrote, “Instead of running, slowly walk away sideways, keeping an eye on the animal so that you can monitor its movements.”

Fighting back.

Given how unpredictable nature is, though, you could still find yourself at the mercy of the bear. So if the beast continues to attack while it has you pinned down, you need to respond with force. Yes, using whatever tools are available to you, you’re advised to strike it in the eyes or snout. As Emerson explained, “The bear intends to kill and possibly eat you, so fight back with any available weapons: a knife, sticks, rocks, your fists.”

Prepared for the worst-case scenario.

According to Emerson, this move could eventually fend off the bear – if you’re lucky enough. After all, when a bear maintains an attack like that for a sustained period, it ultimately wants to kill you. But, due to the numbers that we previously discussed, this would be an absolute worst-case scenario.

Still one more tool.

In conclusion, then, Emerson reiterated that you have to be prepared for any outcome when you head into bear country, as no one can truly predict what will happen. That being said, the retired SEAL still believed that one particular tool would get you out of most trouble.

Pepper spray works.

As he explained in 100 Deadly Skills: Survival Edition, “Some say that playing dead is more likely to work with the grizzly bear, claiming that the black bears’ less frequent attacks are more likely to be offensive. But all agree that pepper spray is the single best deterrent. One so effective that it has been used successfully by children under the age of ten.”

Handling the situation.

Emerson added, “There’s no tried-and-true, written-in-stone protocol for handling a bear attack. In part because attacks are so rare. So it’s no surprise to find debate among bear country-dwellers about how to handle a grizzly charge versus an encounter with a black bear.”