While the forest can be a fun place to explore and enjoy recreational activities, it’s also full of wildlife.
Bob Austman with the RM of Piney says whether you are taking a hike, going birdwatching, or just enjoying the forest, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings.
“We are in their living room, so to speak, and we have to respect that that they were there first. The forest gives them all their needs, like food and shelter and water and so on. We are a guest, so you have to be a respectful guest.”
At this time of year, bears are getting ready for hibernation.
Austman says the black bear population in the southeast is very robust, and at this time of year, they may be found in farm fields looking for berries and other food.
He gives two big tips for staying safe in the forest.
“Number one, be aware of your surroundings. Number two, I would suggest making some noise. Carry a whistle or a bell of some kind.
Austman says black bears are usually not very aggressive.
“The worst thing is startling them, so if you let them know that you're around, that's actually a good defensive technique.”
His third tip is to be mindful of your pet.
“I know dogs will sometimes love to roam and get off the trail, but they can encounter a bear. And then when they run back to the owner, they have the bear in hot pursuit. And that's probably one of the worst situations you can find yourself in, particularly if it's a female with their cubs.”
If you come across a bear in the woods, Austman advises how you should proceed.
“The first instinct as humans is to run, run, run, but that's the worst thing you can do. What you need to think about is slowly backing away, avoid making eye contact with the bear, and give it space.”
As you are slowly backing away, he says to keep your eye on your general surroundings.
“There may be some yearling cubs with that bear. Try and get back to safety as quickly as you can, whether it's onto a road or to your vehicle or to another group of people.”
Lastly, if you need to freak out, do so only after you are safe.
“Then you can start trembling and trying to get your nervous system to calm down, because the adrenaline will be flowing heavily when you encounter a bear.”
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With files from Carly Koop