There are so many rewarding reasons to go outside, whether it’s taking in majestic views or getting your daily exercise. No matter where you decide to soak up the sunshine, though, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings, just like one brave biker did when he came face to face with a black bear!
It’s true; on July 6, Australian mountain biking enthusiast Will Lewis found himself being charged by a black bear after a scary and shocking encounter at a popular mountain resort. He and the bear startled one another as he rounded a blind turn on a mountain biking trail, and although no one was injured, the close call certainly has Will thanking his lucky stars.
@willlewwismtb Don’t get to experience that everyday! 🐻 (sound is delayed for some reason. I actually start making the loud noises as it runs at me) #mtbforyou #bear #downhillmtb #whistlerbikepark
OMG, that was terrifying! I can’t imagine what was going through Will’s mind when he saw the massive bear emerging from the bushes up ahead. This terrifying scene took place at Whistler Mountain Resort in British Columbia, Canada, where bears are commonly seen.
Even though there are no bears native to Australia, this outdoor expert knew just what to do. Well, kind of! Although appearing large, staying calm, and making noise is the correct response to a charging black bear, video viewers quickly spotted something he could have done better if he hadn’t been panicking.
“Turning your back on the bear is crazy,” one commenter shared. It certainly could have ended badly! Fortunately, this bear was simply startled and was just as concerned about leaving the interaction as Will was.
“Good thing it was a black bear,” another commenter said. “If it were a brown bear, that bear would’ve attacked the moment you turned around.” You’re totally onto something! Black bear attacks are different from brown bear (including grizzly bear) attacks, and each has their own set of instructions to follow.
What To Do if You See a Bear
If you see a bear while hiking, do everything you can to give them as much space as possible. In the vast majority of cases, they will avoid interactions and go about their business once they identify you as human.
If the bear doesn’t see you, you can continue in the opposite direction. Remain aware of your surroundings and face the bear as long as you can. If the bear does see you, stand your ground and help the bear see that you’re neither threat nor prey. Slowly wave your arms above your head while talking loudly, yet calmly, to the animal.
Be sure to pick up any hiking dogs and small children, and do all you can to avoid any sudden, loud, or high-pitched sounds. Bears can mistake these for the sounds of prey!
Black bears are more easily intimidated and will often charge and then run away, as seen here. In the rare event that a black bear does attack, use bear spray and fight back with all you have.
For brown bears, on the other hand, lie face down on the ground and play dead. Only after attempting this should you fight back as a very last resort. Aim all kicks and hits at their face and muzzle!
It’s such a relief to know that Will is safe and sound after this scary bear encounter. Hopefully, other bikers and hikers in Whistler can stay safe from bears, too!
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