A large black bear pursued me when I was hiking: shocked and wanting to get away

A tense encounter with a black bear occurred recently as Geoffrey Zhou, a 21-year-old engineering student at the University of British Columbia, was hiking with four companions along Vancouver, Canada’s Howe Sound Crest Trail. According to Zhou, the bear first emerged as a dark shadow from the fog. The group hiked quicker to keep their distance and not scare the bear.

Before being able to shelter behind a bush, the group had to go backward for roughly three-quarters of a mile after the bear pursued them for about half an hour. Zhou, who had received outdoor training, told his friends to ascend and huddle behind bushes. If the bear charged at them, he told them to remove their packs so he could spray the bear with bear spray and potentially throw their bags to get some distance.

Fortunately, despite being only a few feet away from the gathering, the bear went by without incident. Zhou and his buddies probably avoided a dangerous situation thanks to his fast thinking and outdoor survival experience.

_SWNS

If you come across a black bear, keep your cool and keep your distance. Having a direct gaze could be perceived as a sign of hostility by bears. Move slowly and speak with firmness but calmness to identify yourself as a human to the bear and not a possible meal.

Giving the bear enough room and staying close is crucial. The National Park Service advises that you keep at least 100 yards away from bears. Try to move away gently without turning your back on the bear if it notices you.

_SWNS

Try to appear more significant if the bear approaches you by lifting your arms or hoisting a jacket or rucksack above your head. This will give you a frightening appearance and possibly deter the bear from charging.

Bear repellent is a valuable tool but should only be employed as a last option. Before starting your walk, read the directions on the canister. When using bear repellent, aim at the bear’s face and try to put some distance between you and the bear.

_SWNS

It can be unnerving to come across a black bear on the trail. Still, you can lessen the likelihood of being attacked by remaining composed, keeping your distance, appearing more significant than the bear, and employing bear spray as a last resort. Bears should always be treated with respect as wild animals. Take pleasure in your outdoor excursion, but be ready for anything.