If a bear is aggressive / defensive

The bear is either protecting their personal space, a food source or their offspring.

SIGNS OF A STRESSED BEAR
If you come across a bear acting aggressive / defensive, you can expect to see any or all of the following behaviors.
 

1

Vocalizations

These can include moaning, woofing or jaw popping.

2

Body language

A stressed bear will display certain characteristics with its body language, such as: ears pinned back, a stiffening stance, excessive drooling, and head bowing.

3

Paw Swatting

A defensive bear often displays stress behaviors such as paw swatting.

4

Bluff Charging

A defensive bear can bluff charge towards its stressor.

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In most situations, a grizzly bear will act defensively. Remember, the bear is acting aggressively to defend its personal space, cubs or food source, and if you are not perceived as a threat, the bear should leave the area.

Fisher encounters a grizzly bear

What you should do if a bear acts aggressive / defensive

  • Try to remain calm, slowly back out of the area, and have a defense ready.
  • Never run away from the bear.
  • Do not challenge the bear with any aggressive body language or direct eye contact.
  • If the bear begins to approach, stand your ground and use bear spray if available.
  • If a bear makes contact or is about to make contact, drop and cover by lying flat on your stomach and inter-lacing your fingers and placing them on the back of your neck. Do not fight back.
  • Once the bear feels the threat is neutralized it will stop attacking.

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