Larry Gude
Strung Out
(oldie but a goodie)
Alaska Department of Game and Wildlife Bulletin;
In light of increasing frequency of bear/human contact the department is advising hunters, fishermen, hikers and all others planning on participating in outdoor activities to take extra precautions and be more alert for bears while
in the wild this summer.
It is advisable to be 'noisy' in bear areas. Talking aloud, clattering equipment and even the wearing of bells or frequent use of a whistle will alert bears of your presence and assist in not startling them. Simply put, bears do not like being startled. The use of pepper spray is approved and legal in the event of close contact with a bear.
It is also advisable to be aware of sings of recent bear activity. Fresh claw marks typically are territorial in nature. Sings of disturbed underbrush may be indicative. Look for broken branches and trampled areas that may indicate recent presence of a larger animal. Bear urine is also used for territorial reasons along with normal body function. It is very pungent. Bear dung is another good indicator. Black bears, which have been less of a problem, will show obvious signs of berries and vegetation in their stool. The scent is not especially strong so, be visually aware. Grizzly dung typically produces a stronger odor. While sometimes present, berries evidence is not as prevalent as bells and whistles. Grizzly waste will often also emit a pepper scent.
Be aware. Be safe. And remember, nature belongs to us all, including the bears.
Alaska Department of Game and Wildlife Bulletin;
In light of increasing frequency of bear/human contact the department is advising hunters, fishermen, hikers and all others planning on participating in outdoor activities to take extra precautions and be more alert for bears while
in the wild this summer.
It is advisable to be 'noisy' in bear areas. Talking aloud, clattering equipment and even the wearing of bells or frequent use of a whistle will alert bears of your presence and assist in not startling them. Simply put, bears do not like being startled. The use of pepper spray is approved and legal in the event of close contact with a bear.
It is also advisable to be aware of sings of recent bear activity. Fresh claw marks typically are territorial in nature. Sings of disturbed underbrush may be indicative. Look for broken branches and trampled areas that may indicate recent presence of a larger animal. Bear urine is also used for territorial reasons along with normal body function. It is very pungent. Bear dung is another good indicator. Black bears, which have been less of a problem, will show obvious signs of berries and vegetation in their stool. The scent is not especially strong so, be visually aware. Grizzly dung typically produces a stronger odor. While sometimes present, berries evidence is not as prevalent as bells and whistles. Grizzly waste will often also emit a pepper scent.
Be aware. Be safe. And remember, nature belongs to us all, including the bears.