If a bear is predatory

A bear that is acting in a predatory manner is NOT defending anything, unlike defensive bear attacks.

SIGNS OF A PREDATORY BEAR
If you come across a bear acting in a predatory manner, you can expect to see any or all of the following behaviors.
 

1

NOT defending anything

You may be aware of the bear for a long length of time.

2

Acting very interested in you

A predatory bear is often recognized when it appears to be intensely interested in you or deliberately approaches you,

3

Does not display stress behaviors

A predatory bear comes up to you WITHOUT displaying any stress (like moaning, woofing, jaw popping, or paw swatting).

*

If a bear enters your tent, it is behaving in a predatory manner. In a predatory bear attack, you should fight back by any means necessary, do NOT drop and cover!

Fisher encounters a grizzly bear

What you should do if a bear acts predatory

  • Do not back away from the bear but instead stand your ground.
  • Act aggressively towards the bear.
  • Make yourself look as big as possible by holding your arms out and using your coat and standing on a log or rock.
  • Yell at the bear in a loud firm voice.
  • Use branches and rocks to deter the bear.
  • Use bear spray or a weapon to protect yourself.

STAY SAFE AROUND BEARS

BEAR SPRAY

Bear spray is an effective deterrent that is designed specifically to deter aggressive or charging bears. Learn more about bear spray.

Know Your Bears

Wyoming is home to both black bears and grizzly bears. It is important to know the difference between the two, whether you are a hunter or an occasional hiker.
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