 in search of food. |
Has there ever been a creature so fearsome yet so adorable? The black bear is the largest mammal inhabiting the forests of Western North Carolina. Its average weight is about 250 pounds, but some black bears have been known to reach over 800 pounds. Fortunately, the black bear tends to be friendly and will not attack humans unless provoked.
Of course, the best way to avoid run-ins with North Carolina’s largest mammal is taking measures to prevent a bear encounter.
- Keep your picnic area clean of food and garbage
The top reason for bear encounters is their search for food. Bears have been known to approach picnic areas and campsites to satisfy their hunger, so be sure to keep your eating and your sleeping separate. Always pack out your trash. - Hang odiferous items out of reach
If you have something a hungry bear is likely to sniff out, keep it out of reach by slinging it over a branch at least ten feet above ground and four feet away from the tree trunk or nearest major tree limb. While this may not ensure the safety of your food, it will buy you time if a bear finds you in the woods.
If you do see a bear during your mountaineering expedition, keep in mind the following safety tips:
- Do not approach or feed the bear
A bear sighting is an awe-inspiring experience, and it’s natural to want to be closer to this magnificent creature. But keep in mind, the black bear evolved as a killing machine, albeit a cute one. The last thing you want to do is encourage the bear to seek you out as a source of food. - Back away slowly and loudly
Do not run or try to be a silent ninja, because startling a bear can have unpredictable consequences. You want the bear to be aware of your presence, and you want it to know that you are not prey. Stand tall, act big and make loud noises. - Do not play dead
In the unlikely event of an attack, the National Park Service Black Bear Brochure advises to fight back using whatever is available.
It is important to follow these basic guidelines not just for our own safety, but to protect the bears as well. If a bear become too aggressive towards humans for food, the proper authorities will have to put it down. Peaceful coexistence is entirely possible, so long as we treat bears with respect and caution.
A young black bear trots across Asheville Visitor Center's front lawn.
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