Bear Attack – Barely A Worry

by Michael Schenck

   As President of the Arizona Black Bear Association, I am often asked to lecture on this unique and intelligent creature.  Typically, during the summer months, I am asked by the U.S. Forest Service to share my perspective with visitors in the many campgrounds throughout our beautiful state.  Often, upon learning they may be sitting right in the middle of prime black bear habitat, some campers become alarmed and, during the question and answer session that follows my lecture, inevitably ask, “Should I be concerned about being attacked by a bear?”

   The answer usually takes the form of a popular Australian expression we’ve all heard, “No worry!”  In reality, you are more likely to be killed by being struck by lightning or being stung by bees than in a black bear attack.  In the past century, there have been only 35 deaths as a result of black bear attacks in all of North America.  Here in Arizona, we have never had a recorded human death as a result of a black bear attack.

   Of course, when such an unfortunate occurrence does take place, it is headline news.  Black bears are very powerful animals and can do a great deal of damage, if so inclined.  But, such incidents are rare.  Even in comparison to reported bear sightings, the percentage of contact is very, very low.  Add the consideration that, being highly attuned to its environment, a black bear usually detects the presence of humans and disappears before being seen and this number drops even more dramatically.

   Here are some tips to keep in mind whenever you are visiting bear country.  First, remember that the black bear has survived the centuries because of its very non-aggressive nature.  Unlike the grizzly bear’s tendency to attack when threatened, the black bear will almost always elect to flee.  Should you see a bear in the distance, slowly remove yourself from the situation by backing away and then retreating from the area.  Should you surprise a black bear, be sure it recognizes you are not another bear.  Shout at it; wave your arms; flag a jacket or shirt; in a group, gather together to make yourselves appear larger.  In all likelihood, you’ll be amazed at how fast a black bear can disappear into the surrounding forest!

   There are, however, instances when black bears can be dangerous.  A bear strongly habituated to eating human food or garbage may lose its fear of people and defend what it considers its own.  On very rare occasions, black bears have been known to become predatory toward humans.  Should a black bear approach you or your camp in an aggressive or overly curious manner, it should be considered dangerous.  Try to frighten it off by yelling, banging pots and pans, sounding your car horn.  If it persists, leave the area and report the encounter to Arizona Game & Fish or the USFS.

   If you desire the security of some means of self-defense, purchase a canister of pepper spray (those specially designed for animal deterrence) at your favorite sporting goods store.  Pepper spray has proven highly effective in repelling bear attacks and is not too damaging to humans when self-inflicted in the excitement of a moment (take it from someone who has had the experience).

   Keep in mind that bears are wild animals, no matter how cute and cuddly they may seem.  Never attempt to pet a bear; do not try to hand feed a bear or even let food behind.  Never try to approach a bear, or any wild animal, no matter how friendly it might appear.  A little common sense can usually go a long way in preventing most negative encounters.

   All in all, you really have little to fear from Arizona’s black bear population.  Primarily, these amazing creatures need only be given the proper respect.  Campers, hikers, fisherman and hunters can thrill at the chance glimpse of a black bear and the opportunity affords material for a fireside story to be retold again and again.  So, should you be fortunate to catch sight of a wily old bruin as it slips quietly through the terrain, count yourself among the lucky and just say, “No worry!”

For more information about the Arizona Black Bear Association and its activities, contact the organization through its web site at www.azblackbear.com