Black Bear Encounters

Black bears are becoming more populous in many states, and bear-human encounters are also on the rise. Surprisingly, many people don't think black bears are dangerous. In parks, especially, curious tourists want their picture taken with a bear. The result could be an attack or even worse.

In truth, black bears are peaceful animals that will leave you alone if you leave them alone, right? Well, sometimes, and sometimes not, says survival expert Wayne Fears. He says that normally, black bears are reclusive and run away from humans, but not always. And Fears says when the exception does occur, the results can be tragic.

bear1 He advises that probably the most dangerous situation is encountering a sow bear with cubs. In any black bear encounter, back away slowly while maintaining eye contact with the bear. If you turn and run, this could trigger a charge, and when black bears charge, they mean to hurt you.

"Black bears hurt and kill more people every year than grizzlies and polar bears put together," says Fears. "Simply, it's because black bears are closer to populated areas."

"Another reason is people have seen ‘Smoky the Bear' so much, they think black bears are big teddy bears," he warns. "I've seen people do some strange things with a black bear that they wouldn't do with a grizzly or polar bear. Try to get close and make pictures, that sort of thing."

"Black bears can be dangerous. They would rather be left alone, and rather not be around people, other than getting in their garbage for something to eat. Black bears are to be treated with respect and caution and that's something you can't emphasize enough."