[cdt-l] Bear Spray

[Ginny & Jim Owen]

>
>I know you're talking about "what one's brain will instinctively do", but I
>just wanted to note that playing possum isn't always the best defense
>against a bear attack. It often is, but it really depends on the situation.
>Sometimes, such an approach can lead the bear to feeding behavior.
>
>-Jonathan


Hmmm - you only "play possum"  as a LAST resort with a grizzly - NEVER do it 
with a black bear.  That's where the feeding behavior comes in.

Situation in Denali a couple years ago - a European hiker forgot what he was 
supposed to do and played possum as soon as the bear moved toward him.  Bear 
got curious and "played" with him to see what he was.  Result: some minor 
scratches and a really scared hiker.

The perception that a bear is interested in you for "feeding" purposes is 
99.999% both false and over-hyped.  Bears just want to be left alone.   
Their business is feeding (but not on humans) and raising their young 
(without the interference of the PTA or the teachers union).

Walk softly,
Jim

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