Bears are apex predators or alpha predators that stick to their own territory and do not hunt or feed on humans. Having said that most human encounters with a bear occur when a young male has recently seperated from its mother and not yet established a territory of its own. Other cases are when a mother bear feels interrupted and a threat to its cubs. Sloth bears, Asiatic bears and brown bears are more aggresive compared to other species of bears.
Here are some common ways to defend yourself during an encounter:
- Avoid bear danger zones.
- Do not run or climb a tree. This may activate a bears hunting instincts and consider you as prey.
- Raise your hands and stand still as to appear larger.
- Keep bear spray handy. (depending on legality)
- Proper waste disposal – as the smell of human and pet foods can override the bears natural instinct to avoid humans.
