I’ve always had a penchant for survival guides — especially the kind that include tips for how to out-maneuver an alligator, control a runaway camel or escape from an angry gorilla. (Not that I hope to find myself in any of these scenarios soon.)
While these guides are fun to read, truly learning how to respect and behave around wildlife while camping, backpacking, picnicking and hiking can mean the difference between a fun outing and winding up as a statistic.
According to Adam Roberts of Born Free USA, “People want to enjoy nature and spend time in the woods, yet many are surprised when they encounter a bear, coyote or other animal. People get scared or even angry when this happens and seem to forget that wildlife belongs in the wild and that we are enjoying their home.”
Having the knowledge to avoid conflict and manage any encounter properly can ultimately save lives, so what’s Roberts’ number one tip? Don’t feed the animals. “Fed wildlife is dead wildlife,” he says. “Always keep food out of reach and never feed wild animals intentionally or unintentionally.” Once a wild animal becomes accustomed to human hand-outs, they eventually become regarded as “nuisance animals,” which opens the door to “lethal control.” Fed animals will also make a habit of expecting food from anyone passing through their territory, leading to potential conflict and danger.
Roberts also shares the following advice:
Coyotes and bobcats – Aggressive behavior toward people by coyotes and bobcats is most often a result of habituation due to feeding by humans. If approached by a coyote or bobcat, make loud noises (bang pots and pans, blow a horn or whistle, shake a can with rocks, etc.). Show dominance and elicit their natural fear of humans. Avoid fast movements and don’t run, as this may trigger a chase response. When hiking with dogs in coyote country, keep them on a leash. Small dogs may be especially tempting to a coyote.
Black bears – Most negative black bear encounters are caused by surprising a bear or luring them with food. Bears have an exceptional sense of smell — seven times more powerful than dogs — and can detect odors over a mile away. Avoid packing odorous food and fragrant lotions and potions and use bear-proof, odor-proof, airtight containers. Never leave food or ice chests on decks or in vehicles. Hang food and scented items at least 10 feet off ground and five feet from a tree. Be sure tent, sleeping bags and clothes are free of lingering food odors. If you do encounter a black bear, don’t run. Slowly back off and allow the bear room to pass. Avoid direct eye contact and immediately contain and restrain small children and dogs. Black bears may pounce forward on their front feet and blow loudly, followed by the clacking of their jaw. This is a sign of fear. Mothers with cubs sometimes make “bluff charges” (short rushes) or a series of forward pounces, which are also a sign of nervousness and not an intent to attack. If this happens, momentarily hold your ground. Then keep backing away and talking in a soft, calm voice.
Skunks – Skunks typically give warning (i.e. stamping their feet) to make their presence known. They will only spray if attacked. If you encounter a skunk suddenly, stand still for a few seconds until the skunk senses that danger has passed and allow him to wonder off. Or take two slow steps back and continue on your way. Dogs are the most common recipients of skunk spray. If a dog is sprayed, mix 1 quart of hydrogen peroxide, half a cup of baking soda and 2 tablespoons of dish soap. Lather the dog and leave mixture on for three to five minutes before rinsing.
Porcupines - Although they may appear intimidating, porcupines, like skunks, are also pacifists and prefer to avoid trouble unless threatened. They can be attracted to camp sites in search of salt. They will chew on anything salty, including sweaty socks and hiking boots. In areas with porcupines, keep shoes and clothing inside tents or cars.
Hidden animal traps – While most people assume steel-jawed leghold traps are banned in the United States, guess again. These and other traps are widely used to brutally catch wild animals for their fur. Because they snap shut on anything that triggers them (and there are usually no signs or warnings posted), these traps frequently capture “non-targeted” animals, including family pets. According to Born Free USA, for every target animal caught, two non-target animals are also trapped.