by Alfred Nylund

Created on: March 08, 2007   Last Updated: May 03, 2007

Coyotes are afraid of humans, so there's no problem there. The last human to be killed by a coyote was a small child in 1980. They pose little threat to an adult, in part because they're surprisingly small. They're also scarce and wily, slinking away at the first sign of a human being.

Black bears are equally weary of humans, but it's possible to have a negative encounter if you're not careful. The first step in avoiding an encounter with a black bear is to make a lot of noise while hiking so as not to surprise a bear. You could try whistling a tune as you hike. At night, hang your food from a tree at least 150 feet from your camp site. This will keep it out of reach of unwanted animal intruders.

Should you come in contact with a black bear, the first thing you need to do is identify the KIND of encounter you're having.

Did you surprise the bear while on a hike? Does she have cubs with her? Is the bear likely to react to you in a defensive manner? In these types of situations, the best move is to slowly walk backwards, away from the bear. You need to show the bear that you're not a threat. If the bear advances toward you, the best move is to play dead. The bear perceives you as a threat; once you become non-threatening by playing dead, the bear is likely to retreat.

Now, if the bear approaches you in an aggressive manner, or appears to be curious, or is "stalking" you through the woods, beware; you might have the rare male-aggressor testing your limits. In situations like this, playing dead could get you killed. Instead, you need to be prepared to make your stand.

Raise your arms into the air and yell as loud as you can. I have been in a situation like this, and the bear immediately retreated. If the bear continues to approach, or even to charge, be sure that you don't turn to run. If you have a weapon, or can find a large branch to wield, grab it now. The bear is testing you and you need either to put up a fight, or perish.

Now, thus far I have been treating black bears. The brown bear, or grizzly, is a different matter. Never try to fight a grizzly bear hand to hand. You'll lose. Your only chance is either to slowly retreat to safety, or play dead. You might have a chance if you can keep your cool.

My last tip: bears have shorter front legs than back, so if you're going to run, run downhill. And remember: you don't have to outrun the bear, you only have to outrun your slowest buddy.

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