You May Die if You Do This When You Come Across a Bear While Camping
I was in constant fear that I was about to witness a maiming. A new video shows a man trying to scare a bear from his family's campsite and it's a masterclass in what not to do it.
His wife was apparently the one giving the description of what happened:
This video shows my husband...trying to scare a bear cub out of our campsite at Snowflower Thousand Trails Rv Resort.
I would like to say two things. First and most important, I'm thankful this guy and his family were not hurt. Number two, don't ever do what this guy did if you see a bear. Ever.
Some key moments to highlight. First, really bad idea to walk toward the bear.
Bad idea #17, never turn your back on a bear.
One of the comments on YouTube mentioned something I thought of, too.
ibtaba - "Not a great move without even bear spray."
Exactly. No bear spray. No caution. No common sense.
Another person mentioned that mama was likely nearby. Good point. I'm no expert, but the NPS recommends talking to the bear in a calm but stern voice and slowly backing away without turning your back on the bear. Give the bear space and allow him or her to escape. Cornering the bear up against a tree may very well have triggered a defensive attack.
Fortunately, it's just a harmless video camping moment. But, let it also be a masterclass in how not to deal with a bear in your campsite.