Can you see a bear in the winter?

What do you do if you encounter a bear in the winter? 

It's rare but encounters with bears in the winter can happen.  It's difficult to see a winter den, dens can vary and they're often buried in the snow.  Just be prepared and aware that it could happen.  

Defensive Encounter

May occur when a bear is defending something such as

cubs, its food source or if the bear is surprised by your

presence. 

• Do not run
• Ready your bear spray
• Try to appear non-threatening, avoiding eye contact
• Talk in a calm voice
• Slowly move away without turning your back to the bear
• Use your bear spray if the bear comes within usable range of your bear spray (typically 4-10 m (13-30 feet) depending on wind & weather
• Spray using both hands, following manufacturers directions
• Aim directly in front of the bear’s head and a little downward
• If the bear makes contact with you, play dead lying on your stomach with your legs spread apart and your hands interlaced behind your neck to protect it

Non-Defensive or Predatory Encounter

May occur when a bear is aware of your presence but still

approaches you, or when a bear makes contact at night.

This behaviour could be considered curious, indifferent, or

predatory.

• Do not run
• Ready your bear spray
• Intimidate the bear - make yourself look as big as possible and shout aggressively at the bear
• Use your bear spray if the bear comes within the usable range of your bear spray, typically 4-10m (13-30 feet) depending on wind, weather & canister size)
• If the bear makes contact, fight back!
• Attack the eyes, face and nose