Bears

Grizzly bears (left) have a distinctive shoulder hump between the front shoulders that is absent in black bears (right).

Grizzly bears (left) have smaller, more rounded ears. Black bear (right) ears appear larger, longer, and more pointed.

Grizzly bears (left) typically have a concave or dish-shaped facial profile that extends between its eyes and the end of its nose. Black bears (right) normally have long, relatively straight facial profile from forehead to nose tip.

Color is not a good indicator of the type of bear and should not be used as the only characteristic when determining the type of bear you are looking at. Not all black bears are black; black bears (top right, bottom right) can be brown, cinnamon, blonde, or a combination of colors. Grizzly (top left, bottom left) coats also vary in color.

Just like color, size is not a reliable indicator for identifying bears. Size depends on sex, age, and physical condition, so there is often overlap in the size of grizzly (left) and black (right) bears. Plus, when you are judging a bear from a distance, it can be nearly impossible to determine size and weight accurately

If you encounter a grizzly,

• do not run.
• Avoid direct eye contact.
• Walk away slowly, if the bear is not approaching.
• If the bear charges, stand your ground (you cannot outrun it).
• Don’t scream or yell. Speak in a soft monotone voice and wave your arms to let the animal know you are human.
• If you have pepper spray, prepare to use it.
• If the grizzly charges to within 25 feet of where you’re standing, use the spray.
• If the animal makes contact, curl up into a ball on your side, or lie flat on your stomach.
• Try not to panic; remain as quiet as possible until the attack ends.
• While in bear country, be aware that you may encounter a bear at any time.
• Be sure the bear has left the area before getting up to seek help.

• Stand and face the bear directly. Never run away from or approach them.
• Make yourself look as big as possible by spreading your arms or, better yet, a coat.
• Make as much noise as possible by yelling, banging pots and pans or using other noisemaking devices.
• If the bear approaches and you have bear spray, spray the bear as they approach.
• In the very rare case that a black bear does attack you, fight back (don’t play dead).
• After the bear leaves, remove whatever attracted them to the location (barbecue grill, bird feeder, pet food or garbage).