There is something special in spotting a wild animal in its natural environment. Whether it is a mountain lion or a grizzly bear, these moments are the main objective of any outdoor adventure. However, it is vital to remember that these animals are truly wild, we can’t be sure about their behaviour, and they can be dangerous if they feel threatened.While the risk of an attack is very low, and you are more likely to get injured in a car accident with a deer than by a mountain lion, being prepared is your best defence. We will help you understand how to enjoy your adventure tour safely with some of North America’s most iconic creatures.
How can you prepare yourself before heading into the wild
Safety starts before you even step into the wild landscape. One of the most effective ways to stay safe is to ‘avoid being alone.’ Travelling in groups significantly reduces the risk, as most animals avoid large gatherings of humans. If you are travelling with children, it should be your priority to keep them close to you and within your sight at all times.Another simple rule is to ‘stay alert.’ Distractions such as mobile phones or earbuds, can prevent you from hearing an animal approaching or looking for signs of their presence. By putting your devices away, you can enjoy the natural wilderness and stay aware of your surroundings, both at the same time.
What is the best way to navigate through a ‘wild bear’ encounter
If you come across a bear, your reaction should depend entirely on the bear’s behaviour. In most situations, grizzle bears act defensively when you accidentally enter their personal space, or they are protecting a food source or their cubs. A defensive bear might moan, ‘woof,’ or swat the ground to tell you to back off.You should stay calm and speak in a soft voice. Slowly back away, but never run. Running can trigger the bear’s instinct to chase you. If it moves to attack, stand your ground and use bear spray. Unfortunately if you made contact with it, then this is the only time you should ‘play dead.’ Drop to the ground, lie flat on your stomach, and interlace your fingers behind your neck to protect your head. Once the bear feels the threat is gone, it usually leaves. Stay still until you are sure it is gone.On the other hand , a ‘predatory bear’ is usually the one that shows a calm interest in you. It may follow you or approach you directly without making any noise or showing stress.In this case, ‘do not’ play dead. Instead, stand your ground and act as aggressively as possible. Raise your arms, open your jacket, and stand on a rock or log to appear big to the bear. Shout at the bear in a strong, loud voice. If a predatory bear attacks, fight back with everything you have like rocks, sticks or your bare hands.
Image Credit: By Jean Beaufort – https://www.publicdomainpictures.net/en/view-image.php?image=300112&picture=grizzly-bear, CC0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=82893998
What should you do when a ‘mountain lion’ surprises you on your adventure?
Mountain lions naturally try to avoid humans. However, if you do find yourself face-to-face with one, you have to show that you are a danger to it, not a meal. The golden rule is ‘don’t crouch’. Biologists believe mountain lions do not always see standing humans as prey. However, a person who is squatting or bending over looks very much like a four-legged animal, such as a deer. Never crouch or bend over in front of a mountain lion, even when picking up children. Instead, pick children up while staying as upright as possible.If the lion moves towards you, wave your arms slowly and speak firmly. Without turning your back, pick up stones or branches (or use items from your bag, like a water bottle) and throw them near the animal. The goal is to show that you can defend yourself without harming it. If it keeps coming, throw items directly at its body. Avoid the head or eyes, as it could make it more dangerous to others in the future, but do what is necessary to protect yourself. Unfortunately, if attacked, fight back aggressively. Use sticks, jackets, or even your backpack as a shield. Aim for the head and the neck.
Image Credit: By NaturesFan1226, CC BY 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=53525143
Don’t take the herbivores like the ‘moose’ for granted
We often forget that large herbivores like moose, bison, and elk can be just as dangerous as carnivores. The primary rule for these animals is to give them ‘plenty of room.’ Moose, in particular, can become very aggressive if they feel cornered or if they are protecting calves. If you see a moose in the wild, do not try to walk past it. Give it a wide space or turn back and wait for it to move on. If a moose charges you, it is best to run and hide behind a tree or a car.
Image Credit: By Donna Dewhurst – http://images.fws.gov, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=2072582
Sharing the wildlife journey with responsibility
Seeing these animals is a privilege but it is also our responsibility to respect them. Most wildlife encounters end peacefully because the animal chooses to avoid the human. By keeping your distance, staying in groups, and knowing how to react in an emergency, you ensure that witnessing the wildlife remains a safe experience for both you and the animals.If you ever get in a serious encounter or attack, it is vital to report it immediately to park rangers or local wildlife authorities. This helps them assess public safety and manage the local animal populations effectively.