The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is reminding visitors to take extra precautions in bear country following recent bear incidents in several national parks.
Spring and early summer are periods of increased bear activity on many National Wildlife Refuges. Bears may be moving through habitat, searching for food or protecting cubs. Visitors can reduce the chance of a dangerous encounter by staying alert, hiking in groups, making noise in low-visibility areas, storing food and trash properly and never approaching bears.
The Service reminds everyone that National Wildlife Refuges are wild places, and wildlife safety is visitor safety. Simple actions such as giving bears space, securing food and knowing what to do before you enter bear country, can protect visitors and bears.
Visitors should check current park alerts before their trip and follow park-specific bear safety guidance. Bear species, terrain, food storage rules and bear spray recommendations vary across the National Wildlife Refuge System.
Core safety reminders include:
- Never approach a bear.
- Stay alert and avoid headphones on trails.
- Hike in groups when possible.
- Make noise near streams, dense vegetation and blind corners.
- Store food, trash and scented items properly.
- Carry bear spray where recommended and allowed.
- Never run from a bear.
If you encounter a bear, stay calm, speak in a steady voice, back away slowly and do not make sudden movements. Visitors should report bear encounters to refuge staff as soon as it is safe to do so.
For refuge-specific bear safety information, visit the National Wildlife Refuge’s website before arrival.
-FWS-
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service works with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. For more information, visit www.fws.gov and connect with us on social media: Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly known as Twitter), LinkedIn, Flickr, and YouTube.
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