Bears in Alaska, What To Do If You Encounter Them
Whenever I travel to the ‘Land of the Midnight Sun’, I never take for granted the fact that I share this pristine environment with bears in Alaska – black, brown and polar bears.
Polar bears in Alaska are the least likely bear to be encountered by humans as they exist is in its most remote parts and sadly are diminishing in number. Visits to polar bear country should be planned with great care as these bears are aggressive hunters.
The National Parks Service from the US Department of the Interior is the government authority on bears in Alaska and the source of this important information. It suggests that in the case of brown and black bear encounters, always assess the situation first. Does the bear see you? If not, simply move away and the encounter is over. If the bear sees you follow this advice about both non defensive and defensive encounters with bears from the experts.
NON DEFENSIVE Bear Encounters
These encounters occur when the bear is aware of you or is moving steadily along a route.
Hikers and kayakers – change your course, moving away and remaining aware of the bear’s presence.
Campers - as you cook or eat:
Keep all your gear under your direct control.
Make sure that the bear is aware of your presence and stand your ground.
Stay together if you’re in a group. Don’t block the bear’s route and allow the bear to pass peacefully.
Do not retreat if the bear approaches. Stand tall and make lots of noise by shouting and banging post and pans and wave your arm if the bear continues to approach stand your ground.
Stand your ground if a bear charges you, and make yourself look big. Most non-defensive charges don’t end in contact but use bear pepper spray if you have it.
Fight vigorously if the bear makes contact. Kick, punch or hit the bear’s face, eyes and nose.
DEFENSIVE Bear Encounters
These occur in close quarter when bears are defending their food or offspring. They can involve snorting, huffing, jaw popping and charging
STOP and STAND YOUR GROUND if you notice any of these behaviours. Your safety lies in calming the bear
Talk calmly to the bear, move slowly away if the bear is stationary
Monitor the bear as you leave the area
Stop and stand your ground again if the bear renews its stance. Talk calmly to the bear.
Remain non-threatening and stand your ground if the bear charges. Most non-defensive charges don’t end in contact but use bear pepper spray if you have it.
If a Bear Makes Contact during a Defensive Behavior:
PLAY DEAD IF IT IS A BROWN BEAR. Lie face down with your hands around your neck so the bear can’t turn you over. Remain still until the bear leaves. If it begins to feed on you, fight back vigorously
DO NOT PLAY DEAD IF IT IS A BLACK BEAR. Fight back vigorously!
NEVER PLAY DEAD WITH A BLACK BEAR! Most black bear attacks are predatory.
FIGHT ANY BEAR THAT ATTEMPTS TO ENTER YOUR TENT!
Many visitors to Alaska return there often, understanding that this magnificent part of the world is home to a large number of bears and that these creatures need to be treated with caution and respect.
Warm regards
Rowena French
For theteam@MightyDigitalDownloads.com
Transforming Lives, One Person at a Time
Rowena French has enjoyed a life-time love affair with Alaska, returning often, ‘just once more’, to experience another aspect of this spectacular part of the world.
If you want to learn more about ‘Bears in Alaska, How to Share Your Vacation with Them’ read this article on my website www.alaskatravel4U
Tags: alaska travel
Loading ...