Bear on Knollwood 10-22-24 3:15 pm

 Bill Kiner just saw a very hungry Black bear wandering on Knollwood.

Stay inside!

If you encounter a black bear in the wild, it’s important to stay calm and follow these steps to ensure your safety:

1. Remain Calm and Avoid Sudden Movements

• Do not run. Black bears can run faster than humans, and running may trigger a chase response.

• Stay still and assess the bear’s behavior.

2. Make Yourself Appear Larger

• Stand tall, raise your arms, and make yourself look bigger.

• If you have a jacket or backpack, lift it over your head.

• Speak in a calm but assertive voice.

3. Back Away Slowly

• Do not turn your back on the bear.

• Slowly move backward while keeping an eye on the bear, but avoid direct eye contact, which may be seen as a challenge.

4. Be Noisy

• Clap your hands, shout, or make noise to let the bear know you are human and not prey.

• If you’re with others, stand close together to appear more intimidating.

5. Avoid Attracting the Bear

• If the bear is approaching, it may be curious. Avoid leaving food out and keep any food or scented items securely packed away.

• Never feed a bear, as this can lead to aggressive behavior.

6. Use Bear Spray (If Available)

• If the bear gets too close (within 30 feet), use bear spray. Aim for the bear’s face, as the spray will deter it without causing long-term harm.

7. In Case of an Attack

• If it’s a defensive attack (the bear feels threatened or is protecting cubs), play dead by lying flat on your stomach with your hands over your neck, legs spread to make it harder for the bear to roll you over. Stay still until the bear leaves.

• If it’s a predatory attack (rare for black bears, but possible), fight back aggressively. Use any available objects (rocks, sticks, or even your fists) to defend yourself, aiming for the bear’s face.

8. After the Encounter

• Once the bear leaves, slowly and cautiously retreat from the area.

• Report the encounter to local wildlife authorities if you are in a park or reserve.

By remaining calm, making yourself appear larger, and not provoking the bear, you can safely navigate most bear encounters.

New Fox Run

Thanks to Benji and John for sending pictures of our resident fox!

Encountering a fox can be a surprising experience, but it's usually not dangerous as foxes tend to avoid human interaction. Here are some tips on what to do if you come across a fox:
1. **Stay Calm**
   - Foxes are generally shy and not aggressive towards humans. Stay calm, avoid sudden movements, and don't run, as this could trigger a chase instinct.
2. **Give the Fox Space**
   - Allow the fox to have an escape route. Most likely, the fox will run away when it feels safe to do so.
3. **Don't Approach**
   - Avoid trying to approach or feed the fox. It's important to maintain a respectful distance, especially if the fox seems curious or unafraid.
4. **Make Yourself Appear Larger**
   - If the fox seems too curious or is getting too close, raise your arms, make yourself look larger, and make some noise. This can help scare it away.
5. **Avoid Eye Contact**
   - Direct eye contact may be interpreted as a threat. Look in the general direction of the fox without staring it down.
6. **Keep Pets Away**
   - If you're walking a dog, make sure it's on a leash and pull it close to you. Dogs may provoke or chase the fox.
7. **Don't Turn Your Back**
   - If you need to leave, back away slowly, keeping the fox in sight until you are at a safe distance.
8. **Report Abnormal Behavior**
   - Foxes are generally wary of humans. If a fox is showing signs of aggression or approaching without fear, it could be sick or injured. In this case, report the sighting to local wildlife authorities.
Foxes are fascinating creatures, and most encounters are harmless. By respecting their space, you're likely to have a peaceful and brief experience.