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The Bear Rulebook
Written By: Deena Bouknight | Issue: 2021/08 – August | Photograph By: Tihomir Trichkov
Sure, they’re our neighbors, but you don’t need to invite them over for a bite to eat.
Although it may seem thrilling to spot a bear on the Plateau, the creatures require a wide berth, consideration of their habitat, and respect for their innate nature.
They might appear as an oversized version of a cuddly, cute stuffed animal, but American Black Bears are – in reality –dangerous to humans and should be appreciated and enjoyed from a distance and/or within the safety of an automobile or home.
While not quite as prolific as coyotes, raccoons, or deer, black bear sightings are common – especially during this time of year when they are eating their fill in preparation for hibernation. And many residents harbor misconceptions regarding these large, striking creatures.
Bears have sharp curved claws to allow them to both climb trees and feed on insects and grubs in decaying logs and trees; they can run up to 35 mph; and, they can grow to five or six feet in length and weigh up to 300 pounds (females) and 800 pounds (males).
According to wildlife experts with the Southeastern Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, there are multiple ways to co-exist with bears:
Never feed or approach.
Secure food, garbage, and recycling.
Remove bird feeders when bears are active.
Avoid leaving pet foods outside.
Clean grill; store if possible.
Let neighbors know about bear sightings.
While it’s rare for black bears to initiate aggression, if they feel nervous, they may clack their teeth together, or make a moaning, blowing, or huffing sound. They may also stomp the ground. A bear might stand up to get a better look at whatever is bothering them. If they are highly agitated and fearful, they may bluff charge, which means to run toward whatever is frightening them, but then stop before reaching the cause of the fear (dog or human, for example).
Humans are advised to stay calm, make a lot of noise, and back away. Bear spray is effective to use if a bear approaches and an individual feels threatened.
Bearwise.com is a comprehensive source for more black-bear-related information.
