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Bear Aware: NPS Warns of Increased Wildlife Encounters
19 May
Summary
- Bears emerging from hibernation prompt increased wildlife warnings.
- Recent bear encounters injured hikers in Glacier and Yellowstone parks.
- NPS advises maintaining distance and securing food from wildlife.
As the weather warms, the National Parks Service (NPS) is alerting visitors to heightened bear activity. Bears are emerging from hibernation, actively searching for food, and protecting young cubs, making encounters more probable. This advisory follows recent incidents where hikers sustained injuries in Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks due to bear encounters.
The NPS emphasizes that visitor safety is paramount in these wild environments. They recommend several preventative measures: staying alert on trails, hiking in groups, making noise to avoid surprising bears, properly storing all food and trash, and carrying bear spray where permitted.
If an encounter occurs, visitors should remain calm, speak steadily, and back away slowly without sudden movements. The NPS advises maintaining a safe distance, typically at least 150 feet from black bears, and never approaching, feeding, or disturbing wildlife, as such actions are illegal and can lead to unpredictable behavior.
