Recognize Stress Behaviors in Black Bears

by Kevin Wilson, Professional Outfitter Guide, Alberta Hunting Adventures

If you are going to sneak up on a bear, either with a firearm or a bow, it’s important to have some understanding of the black bear stress behaviors. A sow with cubs should always be avoided, as they’re fiercely protective of their young. They’re off-limits for hunting anyhow. For the most part, black bears and even Grizzlies – unless they’re habituated or predacious – want nothing to do with people. In most instances, as soon as they see you, they’ll run off and disappear in the woods. Even still, there is always a chance of aggressive behavior, or even an attack. For this reason, you should be able to identify stress behavior. If a bear sees you, but doesn’t run away or either stands its ground or begins to approach you, it will probably exhibit either low, medium, or high-level stress behavior, i.e.) a distinct change in posture, or the hair on its neck stands up, or the bear is yawning, Take this seriously and know that the bear is uncomfortable with your presence. If it dusts the ground with a paw, stands and slaps a tree with its paws on either side, bites a branch, or is clicking or popping its jaws, this is generally considered to be elevated stress behavior and you need to recognize that you are potentially at risk of an attack. If on the other hand, a bear is more aggressively vocalizing or roaring, you are in danger and the risk of a bluff charge or attack may be imminent. Be ready or shoot or use your bear spray.