You see postings on trash cans and stickers all around town saying, "Don't feed our bears". Reason? YOUR SAFETY!
Bear attacks are rare but it is best to be prepared. You are in the Eastern Sierra. Home to beautiful wilderness, breath-taking terrain, and truly wild wildlife. We tend to forget our true surroundings and are accustomed to city living where humans have the "right of way". The wilderness is NOT YOUR HOME. IT IS THE HOME OF THE WILD.
UNDERSTAND AND RESPECT YOUR SURROUNDINGS and you should be fine.
The following information will help reduce the likelihood of an encounter but also prepare you for the unexpected.
FYI:
- There are over 3 dozen types of black bears in California (even if they are brown color)
- Bears are omnivorous - they eat both meat and vegetation
Rules to follow:
- Don't feed bears - A fed bear is a dead bear. Why? They become accustom to eating human food, attracting them to campgrounds, posing a threat to human safety, then have to be put down.
- Do NOT try to out run a bear! Bears can run up to 30 MPH!
- Do NOT climb a tree. Black bears can climb trees.
- Carry PEPPER SPRAY (see Jack Hanna video on 'Good Morning America')
- Avoid hiking alone. Safety in numbers.
- Give them room | Never approach a bear
- Keep a clean camp
- Remain calm and avoid sudden movements
- Back away slowly, avoid eye contact
- Speak to the bear in a calm, quiet voice. Let it know you are human.
- Keep your backpack on. Offers added body protection.
If an attack is unavoidable...
- Fight back with anything available. Strike it in the eyes or on the snout as you slowly back away.
- If fighting does not scare the bear away, drop to the ground in the fetal position with your hands behind your neck. Stay silent and don't move. Remain quiet and motionless for at least 20 minutes after the bear leaves. Bears will often watch from a distance and return at the sign of movement.
Mammoth Lakes does everything possible to ensure your safety. Their secret weapon...Steve Searles, Mammoth's own Bear Whisperer (video).
Your cooperation following best bear practices is key to a fun and safe vacation in the Eastern Sierra.
Details gathered from MountainNature.com and eHOW.
