How To Get Rid Of Bears
Bears, while admired for their strength and beauty, can become problematic pests when they encroach on human habitats in search of food and shelter.
Encounters with these large mammals can be both dangerous and destructive, posing a risk to personal safety and property.
Published: July 14, 2023.
Common Bear Species In North America
Three species of bears can be found in North America: the black bear (Ursus americanus), the brown bear or grizzly bear (Ursus arctos), and the polar bear (Ursus maritimus).
The black bear is the most common and widely distributed species across the continent, inhabiting wooded areas and forests from Canada to Mexico.
Brown bears, including the subspecies known as grizzlies, are mainly found in the western and northern regions of North America, particularly in Alaska and western Canada.
Polar bears are native to the Arctic regions and are rarely encountered in residential areas.
What Does Bear Poop Look Like
Bear feces, also known as scat, can vary in appearance depending on the bear's diet and the time of year. However, there are some general characteristics that can help you identify bear poop.
- Size and shape: Bear scat is typically larger than that of most other animals you may encounter in the wild. It can range from 1.5 to 5 inches in diameter and is often tubular or loosely formed. The length can be anywhere from a few inches to over a foot.
- Color: The color of bear poop can vary greatly, depending on the bear's diet. It can be green, brown, or black, with a shiny or wet appearance when fresh. As it ages, the scat may turn gray or white.
- Content: The content of the scat can provide clues about the bear's diet. If the bear has been feeding on berries, the feces may be purple or red and contain visible berry seeds. Scat from a bear that has been consuming vegetation may have a fibrous texture and contain grass, leaves, or twigs. If the bear has been eating fish or other animals, the scat may have a strong odor and contain fur, bones, or fish scales.
- Location: Bear scat is typically found in areas where bears are active, such as near berry patches, streams, or trails. It may also be found near potential den sites or areas where bears have been digging for insects or roots.
Keep in mind that other large animals, such as moose or elk, can also produce large feces.
However, these tend to be more pellet-shaped and less tubular than bear scat. When in doubt, it's best to consult local wildlife experts or park rangers to help identify scat accurately and avoid potential safety risks.
How Fast Can Bears Run
Bears are surprisingly fast runners, despite their large size and seemingly lumbering appearance. The speed at which a bear can run depends on the species, age, and physical condition of the bear. Generally, bears are faster than humans and can outrun them with ease.
- Black bears (Ursus americanus): Black bears are agile runners and can reach speeds of up to 30 miles per hour (48 kilometers per hour).
- Brown bears or grizzly bears (Ursus arctos): Brown bears, including grizzlies, are also fast runners. They can also achieve speeds of up to 30 miles per hour (48 kilometers per hour) over short distances.
- Polar bears (Ursus maritimus): Polar bears are not as fast as their black and brown counterparts, but they can still reach speeds of up to 25 miles per hour (40 kilometers per hour) on land.
It is essential to remember that you should never attempt to outrun a bear for one very simple reason - you cannot outrun a bear.
If you encounter a bear, it is crucial to prioritize your safety by maintaining a safe distance, speaking firmly in a low voice, and slowly backing away without turning your back on the bear.
If you have any food in your hands or your backpack, throw them away - it is better to lose a snack or lunch than life.
Running from a bear can trigger a chase response and put you at significant risk. In case of an encounter, it is always best to follow established bear safety guidelines or consult local wildlife experts for advice before going into bear areas.
How To Get Rid Of Bears In Your Backyard
If you find a bear in your backyard, it is crucial to prioritize safety for both humans and the bear. The following steps can help you effectively deal with bears on your property:
- Stay calm and keep your distance: Avoid approaching or startling the bear. Maintain a safe distance and do not attempt to interact with it.
- Move indoors: If the bear is not aware of your presence, calmly retreat indoors and observe the situation from a secure location, such as through a window.
- Notify authorities: Contact your local wildlife authorities or animal control officers to handle the situation. They are trained and equipped to deal with bears safely and humanely.
- Make noise: If the bear becomes aware of your presence, you can attempt to deter it by making loud noises, such as clapping your hands, shouting, or banging pots and pans together. However, this should only be done from a safe distance and from the safety of your home.
- Don't run: If you come face-to-face with a bear, avoid running away, as this can trigger a chase response. Instead, speak firmly in a low, assertive voice, and slowly back away without turning your back on the bear.
How To Keep Bears Out Of Your Backyard
To prevent future bear encounters in your backyard, implement the following strategies:
- Secure garbage: Store garbage cans in a locked shed or garage, or use bear-resistant trash cans to prevent bears from accessing food waste.
- Remove food sources: Remove bird feeders, clean barbecue grills after use, and store pet food indoors to minimize odors that may attract bears.
- Install fencing: Install tall fencing around your property with an outward tilt at the top to deter bears from attempting to climb over. Electric fencing can also be effective, particularly for protecting gardens or livestock.
- Use bear deterrents: Commercial bear deterrents, such as bear spray or bear-resistant electric mats, can be used to discourage bears from entering your property.
- Maintain a clean and tidy yard: Regularly clean up fallen fruit from trees, keep compost bins securely covered, and remove any potential bear attractants from your yard.
Can Guard Dogs Deter A Bear
Guard dogs can potentially deter bears, but their effectiveness largely depends on the individual dog's size, temperament, breed, and training.
Some breeds, such as the Great Pyrenees, Anatolian Shepherd, and Tibetan Mastiff, have been historically used as livestock guardian dogs and may be more effective at deterring bears due to their size, strength, and protective instincts.
A well-trained and appropriately socialized guard dog can act as an early warning system by barking and alerting its owner to the presence of a bear. The dog's barking may also serve to intimidate or discourage the bear from approaching further.
However, relying solely on a dog to protect your property from bears is not advisable, as bears are powerful animals and may pose a threat to the dog's safety.
If you live in an area with a high bear population, it's essential to implement additional precautions and deterrent measures, such as securing garbage cans, removing food sources, and installing appropriate fencing. Combining these preventative steps with the presence of a guard dog can enhance the overall effectiveness of your bear deterrence strategy.
However, it is important to remember that no method is foolproof, and it is always best to prioritize the safety of your family, pets, and the bears themselves by maintaining a respectful distance and contacting local wildlife authorities for assistance when needed.
Fun Fact: What Is A Group Of Bears Called?
A group of bears is typically referred to as a "sloth" or a "sleuth," although it may also be referred to as "maul" or "pack."
Note: One bear can cause a lot of property damage, and a "sloth" of bears can make even more... But, whatever happens, stay safe.
Few Final Words
Bears can become problematic pests when they venture into residential areas in search of food and shelter.
Prioritize safety when dealing with bears in your backyard, and rely on local wildlife authorities for assistance. Through diligent property maintenance and the implementation of preventative measures, it is possible to coexist peacefully with these majestic creatures while protecting your home and family.
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