Montana is a vast outdoor playground where enthusiasts of most any outdoor sport can find something to do. Montana’s vast country and high mountains also are home to a diverse population of animals, which still roam freely. Among these animals is the bear, and often people venturing in the outdoors of Montana may have an encounter with this iconic animal. A bear prefers as distant a relationship with you as you do with it, however it’s not always possible, and here are a few tips to ensure that you stay safe in bear country.
First, if you are alone in bear country, make noise. Human noises should prevent most bear encounters. Hikers have worn bells to deter bears, however the evidence of this actually working is thin. There is substantial evidence, however, that bears avoid human interactions, so consider making human noises‑sing a song as you hike. Don’t feel embarrassed about the quality of your voice, its likely no one else is listening, and a bad singing voice might have a greater affect on the willingness of the bears to sit around and listen.
Hiking in groups is obviously preferable, as groups make more noise, and, if the group has a bear encounter, you have strength in numbers. If you do have an encounter, whether you are alone or in a group, it’s important that you stay calm. Don’t turn and run. Stand your ground, back away from the bear slowly and try to avoid direct eye contact. It also beneficial to try to make yourself look as large as possible.
Pets in Bear Country
Also, people often spend time in bear country with their K9 pals, and dogs don’t always know the rules in bear country. Keep dogs on a leash. The problem with dogs and bears, not considering that a household pet may not understand a bear’s ferocious tendencies, is that a dog may trigger a bear to attack, and then when the dog has incited a bear’s charge, it’s going to bring the bear back to you. Trust me the dog will most likely end up fine, and you’ll be stuck dealing with the bear (remember the joke that you don’t need to outrun the bear, you just need to outrun your hiking partner?)
It’s important to remember that just because a bear encounter is a possibility, it shouldn’t keep you from enjoying the incredible outdoor opportunities of Montana. Stay safe.
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