Alaska Department of Fish and Game reminds hikers that bears are waking up

ANCHORAGE, Alaska (KTUU) – Many Alaskans take pleasure in getting exterior within the spring sunshine, however the Alaska Division of Fish and Sport needs to remind those who wildlife is waking up, too — significantly bears.

Black bears have already been sighted in Anchorage, based on biologist Marian Snively, who supplied some tips about find out how to keep secure on the paths.

If persons are going for a stroll or hike, they shouldn’t go alone, Snively mentioned.

“The extra folks the higher, however it’s safer to go together with two folks than one individual for positive,” she mentioned.

Making noise can also be necessary, and the human voice is best than bells.

“You need the bears to know you’re a human being,” Snively mentioned. “Bells gained’t essentially convey that, however it’s higher than not making any noise.”

Search for indicators that bears could also be within the space.

“So you may search for tracks and scat, contemporary scat,” she mentioned. “You possibly can search for marks in bushes, like scratching. And also you wish to pay attention, too. Lots of people put earbuds in however that’s one other one in all your senses — you wish to use all of your senses.”

Snively mentioned folks don’t want to show round simply because they see indicators of bears, but when they occur to identify a bear that doesn’t see them, it’s greatest to go the opposite manner. Alternatively, if a bear is advancing towards an individual, they need to stand their floor and by no means run. Snively mentioned, at that time, it’s necessary to drag out the bear spray hikers ought to at all times carry with them.

“You wish to begin, as quickly because the bear is coming nearer to you, simply get it prepared,” she mentioned. “It doesn’t imply you’re going to make use of it.”

If the bear continues to advance, folks can flip off the orange protecting clip and provides a brief blast towards the bear’s head.

“You wish to shoot it only for two seconds at first, you don’t wish to empty the canister,” Snively mentioned. “If the bear turns round at that, then you definately’re good. However I’d nonetheless regulate the bear. If it turns round, if it comes again once more, spray it once more.”

Snively mentioned this time of 12 months particularly, it’s necessary to bear in mind and ready.

“I’m not encouraging folks to be afraid of bears,” she mentioned. “I’m encouraging folks to empower themselves to take pleasure in recreating.”

The Fish and Sport web site provides different suggestions for bear security. The division can also be providing a digital seminar on wildlife security from 7-8 p.m. on Thursday, April 28. Individuals who wish to take part should register right here upfront.

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