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ANIMALS
There are many black bears in Southern California, but there are no grizzly bears.
Bears can climb trees and run up to 30 mph, but will rarely attack unless provoked. Everyone has heard the old adage, "don't get between a bear and her cubs, " - and it's true!
Hikers should take care in backcountry areas. While engaging in activities, remain alert for black bears. Talking loudly as you walk is usually sufficient. In heavily populated bear areas "bear bells" may be useful and some hikers carry pepper spray. Look for signs of bear activity, such as feces.
How to Avoid Bear Encounters
Bears have an excellent sense of smell and will be able to smell your food.
- Back away slowly from bear cubs. Don't pat the cute fuzzy cubs unless you would like to take an unplanned trip to your plastic surgeon
- Store food (this includes 1st Aid Kits, cosmetics, toiletries, sunscreen, garbage, air fresheners, etc.) properly!
- Clear all food from your vehicle and air it out days before your trip
- Study local requirements before getting to the area
- Keep food out of your vehicle
- Use bear vaults in parking areas; carry a bear canister for your food if backpacking
- Keep your backpack within an arm's length unless wearing it
- Store your garbage in your bear canister
- Cook your meals at least 100 ft. from your sleep area
- Store your food away from your cook and sleep area
- Carry pepper spray and know how to use it properly
- Wear a bear bell to alert the bear of your presence
DO NOT
- Do not ever feed bears. A fed bear is a dead bear. Bears who become accustomed to being fed lose the fear of human scent and often end up harming humans and will be put to sleep, not relocated, but killed. Do not feed bears!
- Don't leave your food unattended for a second
- Never prepare food or leave garbage or scented items in the campsite
- No food, vitamins, medication, chapstick, deodorant or anything scented in the tents or in your pockets at night
What to do if You Encounter a Bear
- Keep Your Distance and stay calm
- Do not approach, corner or otherwise threaten the bear
- Don't move closer to the bear for a better "look"
- Make loud noises, shout, blow whistles
- Avoid eye contact
- Stockpile rocks by your sleeping area; throw rocks by, not at the bears
- Throw the rocks to protect your food
- Tell the ranger
- Do not run or turn your back on the bear; that's what prey does
- Don't fight the bear for your food. Let him have it
Stay away from Bear Cubs
Baby bears are generally docile and curious creatures. They may come close to you to investigate-like the young of any animal, they are still learning about the world they live in. Do not be deceived by their cuteness: the mama bear is likely close by and will perceive you as a threat to her cubs and may attack you. Do not pet or come close to baby bears.
What to Do if A Bear Attacks You
Like most animals, bears will not attack you unless they have a reason to. Keep your distance from them and you will likely be able to avoid a bear attack.
- Stay calm
- Back away slowly
- Shout for help
- Stay together
- Do not move if the bear tries a "Bluff Charge"
- Toss a rock or large stick at the bear
- Drop to your stomach and cover your neck. If rolled over, turn back on your stomach
- Finally, fight for your life with anything you have and all you've got
Copyright © OC Hiking Club / Hike Everywhere, Inc., All Rights Reserved