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Posted by Bryan L on February 17, 2008 at 1:51:11 am EST
In reply to Bears, Bears, Bears posted by Timeportalmatrix on August 5, 2007 at 12:57:20 pm EDT

I live in Calgary and have spent ALLOT of time in K-Country and Banff Nat Park. I am a avid back country camper and before I was domesticated a bike nut. I have come across many black bears over the years and only two encounters with griz. Here is what I have learned from reading books on the matter and talking with REAL seasoned pros on the subject.

Bear spray does not work! 99% of the people that carry it are too scared to think straight and if they even get it out cannot figure out what when where and when not to use it. Usually the person is standing with the can in hand and the bear is gone

Bear bells are the WORST idea when hiking in black bear country. Black bears are curious animals and will come out to find what is making that noise. You may not see them but they are looking at you.

Bear bangers and flare pens work, but again it falls under the same category as the pepper spray in scared s... to use.

If your going to spend the night you need some guidelines. NO FOOD IN TENT
NO CLOTHES YOU WEAR WHILE EATING IN THE TENT
WASH BEFORE GOING TO BED
HANG YOUR FOOD AND CLOTHES(above mentioned) or use bear bins

Pay attention to your surroundings. dont put yourself in a position that you can startle a bear. Blind corners for example.

Learn what signs to look for at the different times of year. Learn what scat is and what bear does to trees.

Personally I am more afraid of the cats. They ARE watching you, you WONT hear them and if they think your a tasty catch... well your done. I was told by a guy once that for every back country trip you take you have a better chance of being watched at some point by a cat than a bear.

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