Can you see a bear in the winter?

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

 

BE OUTDOORS. BE PREPARED.
Kodiak Wildlife Products Inc.
www.kodiakcanada.com