College Student Killed in Rare Bear Attack While Hiking in NJ

[Eleanors38]

17. Male black bears who silently stalk see a menu...

Last edited Wed Sep 24, 2014, 07:56 PM - Edit history (1)

I can't link to the source with this portable, but its from www.adn.com/art... "Lone, predatory black bears responsible for most human attacks" in the 5-11-11 ed. Google dangerous black bear behavior.

While attacks are extremely rare, the most dangerous situations are lone males who silently stalk: They are sizing you up, and may persist in predatory behavior. The recommendation if a rushing charge ensues is not to flee or curl up on the ground. It is to fight back with everything you've got. These are not mothers with cubs, or accidental encounters. The researchers cited in the article caution against confusing defensive measures for black bears with those of brown bears. Bear spray and awareness of environs are important. The researchers speculate that more attacks by males may have been thwarted by culling offenders; usually one such animal is responsible for all attacks in a given area.

NJ's "blackie" (common nickname) population is expanding, so more encounters can be expected.