In this trigger-happy society where there are over 300m guns – one for every man, woman and child – the most common myth is that you can protect yourself from a bear with a gun. Forget it. If the bear charges, aim the nozzle of the spray just above the bear’s head and give a sustained blast. People Couldn't Ace This Quiz Think You Can? Take Our A-Z-Animals Bears Quiz Grizzly Bear Identification Tips

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Seeing a bear in the wild is one thing. Having one approach, you is another. The moment the grizzly takes an interest in you, escaping isn’t an option. Keep reading to learn how to respond once a grizzly starts coming your way. What to Do When a Grizzly Bear Approaches What are the chances of you running into a grizzly bear? Well, it depends on where you live. Grizzly bears live in Canada, Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, and Washington. They may even be in parts of southern Colorado. Preventing an encounter with a grizzly is the best way to stay safe. If you know there are grizzlies in the area, take extra precautions. Here are some other tips. Quality bear spray contains a minimum of 7.9 ounces of spray, with the ability to spray 25 feet in six seconds. The spray must also have 1-2% capsaicin to be effective. Don’t buy the cheapest spray; invest in a quality brand. That can of bear spray might save your life. How to Use Bear Spray on a Charging Grizzly Avoid hiking at dusk and dawn. Grizzlies are most active at dawn and dusk, so if you’re hiking in known grizzly territories, it’sessentialt to be especially cautious in early spring. That’s when they come out of hibernation, hungry and ready to forage after a long winter.

You’ll put yourself in the best position to stay safe by keeping your distance. The grizzly might not notice you; if they do, the distance can make you appear non-threatening. If you’re close to the grizzly bear, it’s an entirely different story. Grizzly bears are much bigger than other bears. Adult males typically weigh between 300-800 pounds, while females are usually smaller in size, weighing between 200-450 pounds. Some adult males can even stand eight feet tall on their hind legs! Where Do Grizzly Bears Live? Make noise. Grizzly bears are very territorial and don’t like surprises. Let them know you’re coming by shouting, singing, or clapping your hands. Avoid using headphones while hiking, as this can impair your ability to hear approaching bears. An agitated grizzly may pop its jaws and pound the ground with its paws. It may also lunge toward you in a bluff charge. Do not use your pepper spray unless the bear is within twenty-five feet. Make noise. Unfortunately, hiking quietly endangers you. Call out and clap your hands frequently. Sing loudly.

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First, ensure you know what type of bear you’re dealing with. Grizzly bears can be identified by their distinctive shoulder hump and long claws. Their claws can be up to four inches long, and the hump is a muscle that helps the bear dig. Their power also helps them slash prey.

If you carry a gun and don’t have any other options, you can try to use it. Theoretically, a gun can kill a grizzly bear, but it will not be easy. When 600 pounds of angry bear is charging at you, making a kill shot can be near impossible. In an encounter with a grizzly bear, it’s essential to stay calm and not run away. Running could trigger the bear’s predator-prey instinct, making the situation worse than if you had remained still. It is possible to use bear spray as a last resort if the grizzly charges, provided it’s an EPA-registered spray with the right ingredients. And remember, firearms should be avoided unless you have no other option.

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Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the canister for storage and disposal. The label will also include important information on using your specific type of bear spray. Will a Gunshot Kill a Grizzly?It can be a terrifying experience to encounter one of these infamous predators. But whatever you do, never run from any bear. You won’t escape by running; you’ll make things worse. Running triggers their predator-prey instinct. This can make the bear even more aggressive, and you could end up in a deadly situation.