A four-year-old child was attacked by a mountain lion in Olympic National Park during a family hike in a popular area.

Park rangers issued a news bulletin appealing for witnesses after the rare incident took place on Sunday, July 20. The family was hiking near the Victoria Overlook area on Hurricane Ridge at around 3pm when a collared mountain lion bit the child.

Though the extent of the child's injuries hasn't been revealed, the victim was airlifted by a LifeFlight helicopter to a Level 1 Trauma Center and is said to be undergoing treatment for their injuries in a Seattle hospital.

Rangers began the search for the mountain lion immediately, and with the help of a canine team, they located it at around 5pm. The animal was euthanized the following morning. Rangers say there are no current threats to the public but are asking witnesses to contact them at 888-653-0009 or email nps_isb@nps.gov.

Hurricane Ridge can be accessed by car or bus, making it one of the busier mountain areas in the park with multiple short, family-friendly trails.

Mountain lion safety

Mountain lion attacks on humans are extremely rare, but they do happen. In March 2024, two brothers were hunting in a remote area of California when a mountain lion pounced, killing one.

It's important to remain vigilant any time you are hiking or recreating in mountain lion country, even in busy National Parks.

In the unlikely event that you do encounter one, back up slowly and make yourself appear big. You can make noise and wave your trekking poles, throw stones, or do whatever it takes to get the animal to retreat. Learn more in our article on what to do if you meet a mountain lion on the trail.

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Visitors to Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming have been urged to keep their wits about them after a slew of shoe heists in recent weeks.

National Park Service rangers say that at least 32 pairs have been stolen from campers in the area, and are pointing the blame at a furry bandit in 'Wanted' posters that have been hung around the park.

'Wanted for grand theft footwear,' reads one poster, which describes a shoe-stealing fox who goes by the aliases: 'Sneaker Snatcher', 'Midnight Mismatcher', and 'Swiper the Fox'.

The posters appeared three weeks ago after the fox stole 19 pairs of shoes in a matter of weeks. They were designed to stop visitors leaving their footwear outside, but don't seem to have done the trick, as a further 32 pairs have been stolen since.

It might sound like a joke, but officials insist that the warnings are genuine and that visitors' shoes are in real danger of ending up in a fox's den if they're not stored safely.

NPS spokesperson Emily Davis told Backpacker: “We were trying to educate our visitors in a fun way about this fox and not to habituate it."

Officials aren't sure why the fox, or possible group of foxes, has taken a liking to visitors' footwear. Some think it could be attracted to sweat left inside, while others say it could see shoes as something to play with.

"Maybe it’s a toy. Maybe it’s a nesting material collection. Maybe it’s fashion," posits an NPS Instagram post.

Advice for visitors

Park officials are keen to stress the problems with shoe-stealing foxes, who could be getting too comfortable around humans.

"It’s a problem for the fox to get acclimated to humans because it may need to be relocated or, in the worst-case scenario, euthanized," reads the same Instagram post.

The NPS has issued the following advice for campers staying in Grand Teton.

• Store your shoes and other scented items in a secure location like a bear box. Keep them inside your tent at the very least.
• Don't bait wildlife with your belongings.
• If a fox shows up at your camp, scare it away with lots of noise.

For more wildlife safety tips, check out our top tips for surprise animal encounters.

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Following victory for Dartmoor wild campers in May, it's not just humans pitching tents on the high moors that's a welcome sight in the British national park. For the first time in over a century, pine marten kits have been spotted in the region following efforts to reintroduce this native species.

The footage, caught on camera in June, confirms that the reintroduced mammals have successfully bred after eight females and seven males were released across the national park in 2024. Watch the footage, posted by the Devon Wildlife Trust, below:

These small mammals were once commonplace across the English Southwest before woodland habitat loss and human persecution led to their eradication in the region.

Their recent success is down to the hard work of the Two Moors Pine Marten Project, a partnership between a further seven organizations: Dartmoor National Park Authority, Devon Wildlife Trust, Exmoor National Park Authority, Forestry England, National Trust, Somerset Wildlife Trust and Woodland Trust. The project benefited from support from the National Lottery Heritage Fund and the Vincent Wildlife Trust.

"The birth of the first pine marten kits in Devon in over a century marks a truly historic moment for wildlife recovery," said Stuart McLeod, Director – London & South, The National Lottery Heritage Fund. He went on to say that the pioneering project had "brought together many organisations with one goal in mind, to help nature’s recovery".

He added: "This milestone is a testament to the power of long-term conservation, and the resilience of nature when given the chance to thrive".

The Two Moors Pine Marten Project and its dedicated volunteers have spent hundreds of hours tracking the released pine martens, learning about their behavior by installing den boxes and checking camera traps.

"To now see the next generation of pine martens in the South West is simply fantastic," said Lucie Bennett, Somerset Wildlife Trust's Pine Martens Engagement Officer (Exmoor). "What a beautiful sight to see healthy kits moving through the woodlands of Dartmoor that they once again call home. These kits will grow up to do wonderful things as a part of our woodland ecosystem and mark a special moment in history for nature recovery."

A brighter future for the pine marten

It's hoped that the South West's pine marten population will gradually go from strength to strength over the coming years. These shy creatures avoid human contact and are nocturnal, so even keen wildlife watchers may struggle to encounter them on the moors. However, those that do catch a glimpse are being encouraged to get in touch with the Two Moors Pine Project to report the sighting.

Further releases are now planned at secret locations in the neighboring Exmoor National Park for the fall. It's likely that, after robust health checks, about 20 more pine martens will be relocated there from thriving wild populations in Scotland.

"Exmoor’s woodlands are well-suited to the animals," says Tracey Hamston, Two Moors Pine Marten Project Lead. "Their arrival in early autumn will coincide with the local natural harvest of wild berries – food which pine martens love. In a year’s time we would hope to see the first kits appearing on Exmoor.”

Watch this space...

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Visitors to Banff National Park are being warned to take care as officials issue a bear warning for the Lake Minnewanka area. The warning comes following a report that a female black bear with cubs tore open a tent in the Lake Minnewanka Trail campsite.

The tent was empty at the time while the owner was nearby in the designated cooking area, reported Rocky Mountain Outlook.

“The individual was behaving appropriately and the bears did not interact with them,” a communications officer for Banff National Park said. “No negative human-bear interaction was reported and the bears did not obtain any unnatural food rewards.”

Meanwhile, viral footage has been released by a hiker that shows a large grizzly bear following him along a trail in the park.

Caught on camera by Isaac Shah, TikTok user @izzybob209, the bear begins to follow him at a reasonably close distance. Shah holds up his bear spray and continues to walk slowly away as he says:

"Still following me, just got to remain calm and don't run, pepper spray at the ready."

Shah has published a follow-up video from the safety of his car revealing that soon after the video ended the bear left the trail to get water from a nearby stream and he was left safe and well.

He acknowledges criticisms that he should have left the trail, but admits he was scared.

CBC News reported that Parks Canada said Isaac's response was textbook perfect – he stayed calm, backed away slowly and didn't run.

Bear safety

Banff National Park has published bear safety information on its social media channels. The main message is to try and avoid encounters in the first place. You can do this by:

• Making noise and traveling in groups
• Keeping your pets on a leash and under physical control
• Staying on official paths and trails
• Respecting closures and area restrictions
• If you encounter a dead animal, leaving the area immediately and reporting it to park staff

We have useful information on what to do if you meet a bear in our expert safety guide, and there's key info on storing, carrying and using bear spray in this hiking safety article.

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Usually when we write about wildlife encounters on the trail, we're covering stories of bear attacks or defensive moose, but a group of Washington hikers recently got the surprise of their lives when they came across a giant octopus just off the trail.

"What is this thing doing right here?" asks Micah Moehller,in a video he shared to Reddit, which you can view below.

Moehller reveals he was hiking Clark's Point, a coastal hike in a wooded peninsula in Bellingham when he came across the extraordinary scene of a Giant Pacific octopus swimming in a shallow tide pool.

Different angle of the octopus I saw in bellingham bay! from r/Bellingham

Moehller says there are train tracks nearby that separate the ocean from the pool and he thinks the octopus must have swum through a pipe that runs underneath the tracks to reach this inland area.

According to the Seattle Aquarium, Giant Pacific octopuses can weigh from 40 to 100lb (that's 18 - 45kg) and grow up to 14 feet long. They live in dens and do most of their hunting at night, so a sighting like this is extremely rare and another great example of why it's always worth getting out on a hike – you truly never know what you might see.

If you do come across any amazing creatures on the trail, follow the example of these hikers and stay back, admiring it from afar. Check out our guide to wildlife safety for more tips.

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Eight feral pigs have been captured and killed in the Cairngorms National Park, Scotland, following a suspected second illegal rewilding attempt in just under a month.

The pigs were spotted in the dense Uath Lochans area on Monday, and located by authorities the next day. After consulting with veterinarians and the police, Forestry and Land Scotland said they 'humanly culled' the animals.

The FLS is the Scottish government agency responsible for managing the country's forests and land. They condemned the apparently illegal release in a statement.

"The feral pigs, classed as a non-native species, were released with an apparent disregard for the illegality of such action and for the potential consequences that this might have on local habitats and wildlife, on other livestock or even on the welfare of the feral pigs themselves," said a spokesperson.

The Cairngorms is the largest national park in the UK. It's visited by almost two million people each year, who flock to hike, camp, and, run in the picturesque Scottish wilderness.

A month ago, we reported on the illegal release of four wild lynx in freezing conditions at the Cairngorms National Park. After their subsequent capture, authorities transferred the animals to Edinburgh Zoo, where one died.

Gamekeepers are now urging authorities to take swift action against 'guerilla rewilders'.

“Rewilding is becoming popularised as a concept, and there’s a lot of organizations pushing the rewilding mantra,” said a spokesperson for the Scottish Gamekeepers Association.

“It would appear that this is more a form of guerrilla rewilding.

“Perhaps people or devotees within that movement are becoming frustrated at the standard stakeholder processes which must happen around any reintroduction of species."

Several wilderness organizations are in favor of a structured, legal rewilding program. They believe species like lynx should be reintroduced to the British Isles to redress issues with ecosystems and restore biodiversity in areas like the Scottish Highlands.

"It’s the people who have to deal with the consequences of that, they should ultimately have the final sign-off, because they have got to live with it every day,” the SGA spokesperson continued.

“If that process is not followed, then the authorities have to act decisively to ensure that this type of guerrilla rewilding does not take hold in Scotland as the norm."

Authorities have not said whether they believe the two incidents are linked.

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Most wildlife typically likes to give humans a wide berth, but occasionally the two intersect and the results can be explosive. Over the weekend, a disoriented moose found itself on the busy slopes at Breckenridge Ski resort, sending unsuspecting skiers ducking for cover.

In a video posted to Instagram, which you can view below, skiers at the Colorado resort scatter as the moose comes running towards them, with one skier losing a ski in retreat. At one point, an adult skier with a young child enters the frame heading towards the moose then hastily changes direction before falling over.

Skier Kylee Rinker, who captured the footage, positions herself safely behind a ski rack, and by the time the camera returns to the scene, the moose is heading in the opposite direction towards the lift tower.

"Nobody got hurt and she walked right back up the mountain," says Rinker.

What to do if you see a moose on the slopes...

Though the sight of a wayward moose charging around a ski resort might seem shocking, it's something we see at least once a season. Last January, we reported on a similar incident at Winter Park Resort, also in Colorado, where there are an estimated 3,000 moose.

Moose are generally an elusive species, but one that finds itself on the ski slopes in the middle of a busy Saturday is likely to feel panicked and may charge if it feels threatened or accidentally cause damage in its attempt to escape – these giant animals weigh upwards of 800 lbs.

If you encounter a moose on the slopes or the trail, the most important thing you can do is give it plenty of space. Immediately secure your pets and children, slowly back away and if it's acting aggressively, position yourself behind something like a tree or a boulder in case it charges. Learn more in our article on what to do if you meet a moose.

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A lynx that was illegally released into the Scottish Highlands has died despite the best efforts of experts who captured and attempted to save it.

On Friday, January 10, officials from the Scottish Police confirmed that they’d managed to track down and capture two lynx spotted in the Cairngorms National Park, a popular spot for hiking in Scotland.

The wild cats, which became extinct in the UK 1,000 to 1,500 years ago, were tracked down using trail cameras, and humanely captured in a collaborative effort between the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland, local police, and Cairngorms park rangers.

While the pair were initially believed to be in good health, the Royal Zoological Society announced on Saturday, January 12 that one of the animals had died.

“After extensive efforts to capture these animals safely and humanely, we were very sad to discover that one of them has died overnight,” said Dr Helen Senn in a statement.

“We do not yet know the circumstances behind its death but will be carrying out a post-mortem to try to establish what happened.”

Officials had been working hard to track down another pair last week that had been spotted near the Highlands town of Kingussie.

These two were also captured quickly and humanely using trail cameras and bait.

Police believe that all four lynx were illegally released together.

Calls to re-introduce the once-native Eurasian lynx in Britain have grown louder in recent years. Advocates claim a wild lynx population could redress issues with Britain’s eco-systems and restore biodiversity to nature areas like the Scottish highlands.

David Field, chief executive of the Royal Zoological Society, thinks the illegal release could be the work of rogue rewilders.

"Sadly, there are rogue rewilders out there who bypass all the established international best practices," he told the Guardian.

"That’s really sad and that’s a real, real risk."

What are lynx?

Found in forests and mountainous areas across Europe, Asia, and North America, lynx are medium-sized wild cats.

There are four species of lynx. The large Eurasian lynx can grow to the size of a labrador dog. The deceased lynx was reportedly Eurasian.

Despite their size, wild lynx aren’t typically dangerous to humans. They tend to prey on small mammals like rabbits and hares, birds, and larger species like deer.

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Hikers on a popular long-distance trail in the Scottish Highlands are warned to be alert to a fast-growing population of wild boar.

Up to 8,000 of the large feral pigs are now living along the 78-mile Great Glen Way, between Fort William and Inverness. The trail is also popular with runners in Scotland.

While the wild animals will usually prefer to avoid humans, there have been documented incidents of attacks.

The boars, which have been spotted up to 420lb / 190kg in weight and the size of a Shetland pony, will aggressively protect their nests and young.

If taken unawares or cornered they may attack. Hikers with dogs are also being warned of the potential dangers.

A woman on a section of the trail recorded frightening footage of a boar attacking her dog, while it was on a lead.

A farmer on the banks of Loch Ness, Catherine Mclennan, also told a newspaper, The Press and Journal (P&J), she came across wild boar at night. She said: “There were dozens of them on our land.”

She added, with a warning: “There have been people coming across the wild boar and being chased by them. Someone will get killed or badly hurt.”

Posts of the Great Glen Way Walk Facebook page report other issues with boars on the Invermoriston to Drumnadrochit section of the Great Glen Way, including a couple with a dog who were chased.

Stuart Macdonald, who lives near Drumnadrochit, in the Great Glen and runs a pest control business, told Advnture he has also heard about – and seen evidence of – wild boar attacks on both people and dogs, as well as suspected livestock killings, including lambs and ewes.

He said: “Populations of the wild boars in the area are out of control.”

And he believes official figures on the numbers of wild boars are “most likely misleading”. He said: “The Scottish Government agency NatureScot reports there are populations in their low thousands but I would suggest the numbers are much higher than this.

“This is also backed by other anecdotal reports and wildlife camera recordings. It’s difficult to keep track of the animals because they are usually quite secretive and they spend a lot of time in deep vegetation.

“But given how many we used to see a decade of so ago and the numbers spotted now, even a conservative estimate puts numbers at around 8,000.”

More and more sightings of boars

Macdonald, who owns A1 Vermin Control and Deer Management, said that hikers on the Great Glen Way are increasingly likely to see the boars.

He said: “Over the years, the number of sightings has increased because the population has grown. They are fast breeders with sows having a potential two or three litters of up to six piglets annually. At six months, the young sows can also breed so you can see how numbers quickly expand.

“It’s fairly common to spot the pigs all along the trail – and within half a mile of Inverness city centre – and they are often in groups of males, females and young.”

Public sightings, as well as reports of land damage and attacks on livestock, are recorded on both sides of famous tourist attraction Loch Ness, which stretches along the Great Glen Way, and as far apart as Fort Augustus, Dores, Whitebridge Drumnadrochit and Dochfour. The sighting close to Inverness was reportedly at Torvean Quarry, a privately owned woodland.

Call for action to reduce wild boar populations

In other recent newspaper reports, including The Telegraph, the Inverness Courier and the P&J, there have been calls by land owners, farmers and gamekeepers for action to better manage the boar numbers.

Gamekeeper Robert Sanderson told the P&J: “The population is now at the point where it is becoming unmanageable”. He added: “They will go everywhere and anywhere with tree coverage and fresh vegetation…. They destroy land very quickly.”

Stuart told Advnture that "more definitely needs to be done and urgently to control the growth and spread of the boars by trapping and shooting".

NatureScot states that primary responsibility for controlling what they call "feral pigs" lies with individual land managers.

A spokesperson said: “NatureScot and Forest and Land Scotland have developed best practice advice to guide land managers in controlling feral pig populations safely and humanely. A licence is not required as feral pigs are not a protected species.”

Meanwhile, animal welfare charity OneKind believes there is an atmosphere of negativity surrounding the boars and there should be a greater focus on "developing a culture of coexistence".

Safety advice for hikers on the Great Glen Way

Macdonald offers his advice for hikers on the Great Glen Way, which is a way-marked trail popular with both locals and tourists. Great Trails. He said: “In most cases, the pigs will run away from people. This is their natural instinct, just like many wild animals.

“No one wants to be scare-mongering but there is a growing reality to the problem of wild boars in the glen.

“The fact is they are wild and they can be big and aggressive beasts, plus they will defend themselves and, especially, their young.

“If you chance upon a wild boar, or a group, it’s best to stay still and remain calm, rather than running away or trying to scare them away.

“If the boar feels cornered or if they are protecting their young, they may try to attack, so it’s better if hikers stay on, or close to, the path and they should not accidentally stray into a wild boar habitat, or near to a nest.

“Dogs can be a real issue. Owners should be confident that their dog will walk to heel or, if on a lead, will stay at heel. Dogs that are roaming off the lead may inadvertently come into contact with the boars and this could lead to attacks.

“If you are with a dog and see the boars, you should have your dog held close to you with their collar and either wait calmly for the pigs to pass or aim to walk calmly past with your dog under control.

“If a pig does still attack, the advice is to let your dog go so that you do not face an attack as well.”

The NatureScot spokesperson added a more general warning about wildlife: “The public should always be aware of the potentially aggressive response by wildlife to the presence of dogs. Dogs should be kept within sight and under control but should be released if owner and dog are threatened. Do not linger in an area if wildlife is disturbed by your presence.”

Another recommendation is to avoid wild camping in areas close to the Great Glen Way because wild boars may be in the vicinity.

Why are there wild boars in Scotland?

There are many different stories of the origins of the 21st century wild boars. Scotland did once have large populations of the mammals but they became extinct in the 13th century due to hunting and habitat loss.

The new breeding populations, which are also known to exist in Lochaber, Dumfries & Galloway and Ross-shire, are thought to be a result of escapees from private collections and farms, and illegal releases.

One theory is that the boars were released from an estate near Invermoriston, close to the Great Glen Way. Other reports are of boar that originated from captivity in Achnacarry, also near the popular hiking trail, and Spean Bridge near to the southern end of the Great Glen Way.

Many people reckon the wild boars have bred with domestic pigs and the result is a feral mix-breed of pig.

However, Stuart has a different story. He said: “About 12 years ago, about 150 black Siberian boars, kept by a private estate on the west coat of the Highlands, got out of fencing.

“It’s thought that about 100 headed east and many ended up in the Great Glen area, as well as some in Lochaber. This is what I believe to be the main source of today’s population.

“People will tell you that the boars have bred with domestic pigs and that accounts for the different colours, some with pink patches. However, I think this is more likely due to in-breeding of close family relatives. I believe most of the boars seen today can be traced back to that estate escape.”

There are fresh counts of the boars in the area being undertaken at the moment by NatureScot and several partners. The spokesperson said: “Data from these counts is likely to be available in February 2025.”

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A 63-year-old hiker has died after being attacked by "stinging insects" on a Hong Kong hiking trail.

According to the South China Morning Post, the incident occurred on Tuesday afternoon when a party of four was hiking on the Wilson Trail in the Pat Sin Leng mountain range.

The group of two men and two women was attacked by flying insects at around 4 p.m. and ran for shelter. One of the women – who had been stung on the head – was able to call for help, telling police they had been ambushed by "beelike insects."

Rescue teams deployed to the scene where they found three of the hikers near the village of Lai Pek Shan. The fourth hiker, one of the men, had gone missing.

Approximately four hours later, rescue crews found the man in a coma. He was airlifted to hospital where he was pronounced dead.

In September, a hiker in France died after the group she was walking with was attacked by Asian hornets. That incident occurred less than a month after three hikers were hospitalized after a giant hornet attack in Taiwan.

Staying safe around stinging insects

Even the best insect repellents won't deter bees and hornets, but according to the Washington State Department of Agriculture, you should keep food and drink covered and avoid scented toiletries and perfumes which can attract stinging insects. Cover your skin with long hiking pants and long-sleeved base layers on the trail to reduce exposure.

Just like the advice for encountering yellowjackets, if you find yourself surrounded by hornets stay calm. Avoid swatting at hornets, which can make them go into attack mode, but move away from the area quickly. Carry antihistamines and seek medical attention if you display symptoms of an allergic reaction such as shortness of breath.

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A wildlife photographer lost in a remote mountain area in southeastern Australia is lucky to be alive after being bitten by a highly venomous snake.

According to reporting by the BBC, the woman named Lovisa Sjoberg was reported as suffering from the potentially lethal venom of a “shy but aggressive” copperhead snake when she was rescued in the Snowy Mountains almost two weeks after she was last seen.

A huge search mission, which included a helicopter with infra-red capabilities, was described as like looking for a "pinhead in a haystack".

The 48-year-old was also dehydrated and had an ankle injury when New South Wales Police finally located her yesterday at Nungar Creek Trail in Kosciuszko National Park.

Supt Toby Lindsay tells the BBC Sjoberg had been "wandering [for] days" through "tough" bushland. He added: “She’s very fortunate to be alive... she obviously went through a tough time.”

A regular visitor to the area, Sjoberg documents wild horses living in the mountains. The alarm was raised that she was missing after the company she had rented a car from said the vehicle had not been returned.

Sjoberg is now reported to be in a “reasonable condition” and recovering in hospital although the outcome could have been a lot worse because the bite of copperhead snakes includes a powerful neurotoxin that can be fatal without medical intervention.

What to do if you see a snake on a trail

If you encounter a snake while hiking or running on a trail, it’s best to back away and wait for it to move away on its own – especially if it’s a venomous serpent like a rattlesnake. If you can identify the type of snake, that can help you understand how dangerous it might be. Do not throw rocks or prod it with a stick, because that will make it want to strike.

To avoid being bitten by a snake, wear high-top hiking boots and long hiking pants when hiking because the most common place for a snake to strike is the inner ankle area. The best course of action is to put a distance of at least a few large steps between you and the snake as soon as you see it.

When hiking in snake country, never step or put your hands where you cannot see and consider wearing gaiters for added protection. You can also use trekking poles to tap the ground in front of you before stepping into unknown territory. Learn more in our article on what to do if you see a snake on a trail.

For venturing into the backcountry, it's also advisable to carry a satellite messenger such as a Garmin InReach so that you can communicate with mountain rescue even without cell service.

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A popular grizzly bear known as Grizzly 399, resident of Grand Teton National Park near Yellowstone National Park, has sadly been fatally struck by a car south of Jackson, Wyoming. The accident happened on Highway 26/89 and 399 was later identified by her ear tags and microchip.

The oldest-known reproducing female grizzly bear had a yearling cub with her at the time of the collision, whose whereabouts is now unknown. Park rangers don’t believe it was involved in the accident but are monitoring the area.

Grand Teton National Park Superintendent Chip Jenkins said, "Grizzly bear 399 has been perhaps the most prominent ambassador for the species. She has inspired countless visitors into conservation stewardship around the world and will be missed.”

Followers were quick to take to social media to express their sorrow and messages of hope for the cub’s wellbeing, with almost 600 messages amassing in less than 24 hours.

Patty Hudson Riordan said: Such heartbreaking news. So incredibly sad. Grateful for the opportunity to have seen her in May. Thanks for the memories, Queen of the Tetons.

Tee Tucker posted: I waited for her every spring, hopeful that we’d get another summer of watching her simply being the magnificent creature that she was. When she showed up last spring with Spirit, I was so excited. I hope that Spirit is found safe.

BK Gill called for change: This would be a good time to raise funds for wildlife corridor bridges and figure out how to enforce speeding laws in high wildlife traffic areas, so that she did not die in vain.

The accident comes as plans for two overpasses to stop animals getting hit by cars in Yellowstone move a step closer to fruition, with government funding awarded.

The overpasses would provide a safe way for animals to cross over the highway near Dome Mountain, an area of frequent animal collisions.

Elsewhere, figures have been released on vehicle collisions with grizzly bears from the Interagency Grizzly Bear Study Team:

• From 2009-2023, there have been 49 grizzly bear mortalities (due to vehicle collisions in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (GYE).
• This equates to 3.3 bears per year.
• In 2024 so far there have been two grizzly bear mortalities from vehicle strikes in Yellowstone.

Currently, there are at least 1,923 grizzly bears in the 48 lower US states.

An investigation is underway in Colorado after a man killed a mountain lion with a shovel at a campground.

According to Colorado Parks and Wildlife, the incident took place on September 26, when they responded to a report of a man killing an "aggressive" mountain lion in a campground near Cañon City, southwest of Colorado Springs.

The CPW reports that when their officer arrived at the scene, a dead female lion weighing around 95 lbs was lying on the hood of the man's Jeep. The man told the officer that he and his husky were sitting next to his recreational vehicle the night before when the mountain lion approached them. He said the dog began growling and barking.

"When the lion got within about 10 feet, the dog engaged it and the man grabbed a shovel, which he used to strike the lion in the head, killing it," says the CPW.

Upon inspection of the lion, officers found that it had an injury to its front right paw and scratches along its back. The man suffered no injuries and said he was never touched by the lion, so the CPW states that this incident does not qualify as a mountain lion attack.

"The CPW officer’s preliminary finding was that the man was in fear of his life and acted in self defense when confronted by a lion acting unusual and extremely aggressive."

The lion's body has been sent to an animal health lab for further inspection, and the CPW declines further comment pending the results of the investigation.

Mountain lion safety

Although there have been several mountain lion attacks this year, including a fatal attack on a 21-year-old hunter in California and a snowboarder who fought one off with his snowboard in Utah, mountain lion attacks are rare in Colorado. The CPW has recorded just 25 lion attacks on humans since 1990. 

However, if you are recreating in mountain lion country, it's always important to stay vigilant. The CPW advises you to make noise if you are outdoors from dusk to dawn, when mountain lions are most active. If you are camping, illuminate your campground with camping lanterns so that you can see mountain lions and secure your pets. Learn more in our article on what to do if you meet a mountain lion on the trail.

• Wildlife safety: 8 tips for surprise encounters 

A hiker in Montana’s Glacier National Park is recovering in hospital after the quick thinking of his friends miraculously saved him from a bear attack. On September 19 the 35-year-old and his hiking group were exploring the Highline trail in foggy conditions when they stumbled into the path of a male grizzly.

The bear reacted by biting the man’s leg, before fleeing when members of the hiking group used bear spray to fend off the animal. The group then used a satellite communicator to call for help. After reaching the park’s dispatch, they received instructions on bandaging the injured leg, saving their friend from infection and further blood loss. They were joined by nearby park rangers who helped the injured man trek the mile to the Granite Park Chalet, where he was airlifted to hospital. 

Satellite communicators don't rely on phone signals so they are an excellent tool for wilderness survival, allowing users to access help regardless of their location or remoteness. In the past decade, Garmin inReach devices alone have helped get emergency assistance to people in more than 10,000 emergency incidents.

Just two weeks ago, a Canadian hiker was saved after a similar bear attack, when his Garmin device sent an SOS call to emergency services.

“No matter what your experience level is, while exploring the wilderness, SOS devices are an essential tool for anyone who may find themselves in an emergency situation”, said the Royal Canadian Mounted Police at the time. “It is the most reliable way to call for help after sustaining an injury in an isolated area.”

When Face to face with a charging bear, biologist and ‘Tooth and Claw’ podcast host Wes Larson explains that bear spray is the only viable option.

“Bear spray shoots out a whole cloud of aerosolized pepper spray, so when the bear is still coming at you, it passes through that cloud.

“It's unlike anything they’ve ever experienced, and they just want to get out of there instantly.”

Approaching within 100 yards (91 meters) of bears and wolves is illegal at Glacier National Park, but unplanned encounters can happen on narrow trails when visibility is limited.

Of course, the best way to survive bear attacks is to avoid them altogether. Staying on designated trails, hiking in large groups and making noise are all advised before reaching for your spray. But in the event of an attack bear spray could just save your life. Here's more on how to use bear spray.

• Tourist learns the hard way never to approach a grizzly bear for photos no matter how cute it looks 
• This POV video shows just how fast a grizzly bear can really attack

A hiker has died after the group she was walking with was attacked by Asian hornets in France. It's the second attack in the area in less than a week and comes less than a month after we reported on three hikers who were hospitalized after being stung by Asian hornets in Taiwan.

The incident took place in the northwestern region of Brittany yesterday, according to the French newspaper Connexion France. The group of eight was walking on a hiking trail near Pleudihen-sur-Rance (Côtes-d'Armor) when they encountered a hornet nest on the ground. A single nest can house up to 4,000 hornets.

A swarm of hornets attacked the group, and five people sustained multiple stings. They were able to contact emergency services, but a 77-year-old woman had gone into cardiac arrest and was pronounced dead at the scene. 

The other victims were transported to hospital, where one 69-year-old woman remains in intensive care. The trail has been closed to the public while the nest is destroyed.

A man walking on the same trail was attacked on Friday and stung dozens of times, but managed to escape to safety. 

Staying safe around hornets

Deaths from hornet stings are rare, but Asian hornets are more aggressive than other types. Asian hornets are the biggest wasp species in the world, according to Britannica, and are usually between 1.2 and 1.3 inches long (35 mm and 40 mm) with a quarter-inch-long stinger that delivers a potent venom that can kill a human if stung multiple times or if the victim suffers an allergic reaction.

The species is native to south and east Asia, but has become an invasive species in France, elsewhere in Europe and the UK. There were some sightings of Asian hornets in the US between 2019 and 2021, but no confirmed sightings since, according to the Department of Agriculture.

Even the best insect repellents won't deter hornets, but according to the Washington State Department of Agriculture, you should keep food and drink covered and avoid scented toiletries and perfumes which can attract stinging insects. Cover your skin with long hiking pants and long-sleeved base layers on the trail to reduce exposure. 

Just like the advice for encountering yellowjackets, if you find yourself surrounded by hornets stay calm. Avoid swatting at hornets, which can make them go into attack mode, but move away from the area quickly. Carry antihistamines and seek medical attention if you display symptoms of an allergic reaction such as shortness of breath.

• The best first aid kits: be prepared for accidents and emergencies

A marmot who hitched a ride out of Yosemite National Park in the engine of a car, has been rumbled and returned to his natural habitat with the help of local firefighters. 

Usually found at altitudes of more than 6,500ft, this yellow-bellied marmot was discovered in Pollock Pines, California - hiding some 135 miles from Yosemite. 

Stunned by the discovery, the car’s owner, who had recently returned from a trip to the historic park, enlisted the help of firefighters from the El Dorado County Fire Protection District. After an injury-free removal, the marmot got another free ride, back to Yosemite this time with the help of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. 

Native to Yosemite, yellow-bellied marmots live at high altitudes, roaming the cliffs and mountain tops in colonies of 10 to 20 animals. Fully grown marmots weigh between 5 and 11lb (2.25 to 5kg) and can live up to 15 years, surviving off a diet of grass, flowers, fruit, grasshoppers and bird eggs.  

If you encounter a marmot in the wild, remain still for a chance to see the rest of it's colony. Marmots can also be hostile if they feel their territory is threatened, so don't attempt to pet or touch them. 

• Watch this cute wombat find new use for hiker's trekking poles
• The scariest animals to encounter on a hike and how to handle them

Californian optics brand Nocs Provisions’ range of colorful binoculars and monoculars is split into three families: the beginner-friendly Standard Issues, the all-rounder Field Issues and the sophisticated and more expensive Pro Issues. Earlier this year, I tested the Field Issue Waterproof 10x32 Binoculars and found them to be a very smart pair mid-sized bins. Featuring Nocs’ trademark ridged texture, which is both attractive and grippy; solid clarity; and easy to use features – I was suitably impressed.

The best binoculars are always going to have the edge over monoculars when it comes to overall image quality and field of vision. However, regardless of how you feel when it comes to binoculars vs monoculars, the latter does have the twin advantages of weight and portability, which can be a massive plus if you’re looking for optics to take on outdoor adventures. So, I was intrigued to try what Nocs calls ‘the one eyed complement to the 32mm Field Issue Binocular’, the brand new Field Tube 8x32, a compact monocular designed with packability in mind.

Meet the reviewer

First impressions

The Field Tube features Nocs’ distinctively colorful ‘Rugged Wave Grip’: the ribbed texture that provides a non-slip hold in the hand. I like this bright and modern design, quite at odds with the stereotypical dull colors binoculars often sport. It’s certainly the first thing that jumps out at you when you liberate the Field Tube from its box.

It’s a neat little unit, beautiful in its simplicity. The embossed gold of the Nocs logo and the key specifications on the focus wheel are nice touches that add a bit of class. Image clarity and contrast are good, while the oversized focus wheel makes sharpening things up a doddle. When held in one hand, it’s obviously shakier than a pair of bins, but then there’s enough space on the tube for a second hand to stabilize the image.

So far, so good. Let’s get beneath its ridged skin and take a look at the Field Tube’s features.

The optics

The Field Tube has a magnification factor of 8, ideal for nature watching, and a 32mm objective diameter, which is fairly standard in compact binoculars and the like. This means it doesn’t greedily gather quite as much light as something like Hawke’s Endurance 8x42 binoculars, which we rate highly for observing wildlife. Nevertheless, considering the Field Tube’s portability, this is to be expected. 

A clear image is achieved thanks to the fully multi coated lenses, which are scratch resistant and provide anti-reflective qualities. To bring those kingfishers and red kites into focus, there’s an easy to operate, oversized focus wheel that’s textured for one-finger adjustment.

The Field Tube boasts the same BaK4 prism as the Field Issue Binoculars. This Swiss-designed porro prism is put to use in many premium optical instruments. If you appreciate how binoculars work, you’ll know the importance of a quality prism and the Field Tube has one.

Feature focus

The whole reason I’d look into investing in a monocular are that they are typically smaller, lighter and more packable than a pair of binoculars. If I’m heading out into the backcountry on a long-distance hike and I’m trying to keep the weight down, a monocular like the Field Tube is a much more tempting option than a pair of bins. They still provide the opportunity to view wildlife up close or take a detailed look at the route ahead, without the weight penalty.

This is because the Field Tube weighs 239g (8.4oz), which is about the weight of an orange. Meanwhile, it’s small enough to stash in a pocket or slot into the mesh side panel of a daypack. It’s just a little over half the weight of its Field Issue binocular brethren and there’s no way I’d be fitting those in my pocket. So, this is very much the USP of the Field Tube.

All this functionality would all be for naught if the Field Tube wasn’t robust enough to take on the backcountry. This is why it’s waterproof-rated to IPx7, meaning it can cope with submersion up to 1 meter for up to half an hour. In other words, a bit of rain won’t hurt it.

It’s also fog proof. No, this doesn’t mean it can magically see through misty conditions – the brand that invents such a device will make a killing among mountain enthusiasts! No, what it means is that it prevents fog building up on the interior of the lenses. It achieves this thanks to nitrogen-filled internal chambers.

It can also be screwed onto a tripod or similar for really stable viewing pleasure. To round things off, the Field Tube comes with a lifetime warranty, its packaging is fully recyclable, is printed with soy-based inks and is itself made from 90% post-consumer recycled cardboard. So, a few sustainability ticks there then.

In the field

I really enjoyed using the Field Tube when out and about during the test period. Its ability to slot into a pocket, ready for those chance encounters with deer, foxes, peregrines and other wildlife is a real boon and it's a lot more packable than a pair of bins.

One barrel didn't necessarily mean one handed use, as I found that I was able to get the steadiest image with the stability offered by two hands. However, it is possible to hold the Field Tube and adjust the focus wheel with just one. The focus wheel turns smoothly and is really easy to grip thanks to its textured finish. Meanwhile, the ridged design of the body makes the Field Tube difficult to drop. Always handy when exploring steep escarpments.

With a monocular, what you gain in lightweight packability you lose in overall field of vision and viewing pleasure when compared to standard bins. Nonetheless, I was impressed with the sharp, clear image I was able to get from the Field Tube. Even when wearing glasses, I was able to adjust the eyepiece to suit.

I'd have liked a strap that could be worn around the neck, like most binoculars have. While the wrist loop gave me the security that I couldn't drop the Field Tube, it's not as though I'd be able to comfortably walk with it swinging from my arm. So, after use, I'd always have to pop it back in my pocket, rather than having it to hand, as it would have been had I been able to strap it around my neck.

The close focusing distance is around 7ft / 2.2m, which is pretty decent but not suitable for really getting in close of butterflies, wildflowers and the like. If this kind of thing is your bag, we'd recommend the Kowa BD32-8XD binoculars.

When all is said and done, this is an impressive little unit that's great for a spot of casual wildlife watching on hikes or backpacking trips. Of course, if you're a serious birder or wildlife enthusiast, it won't replace your binoculars, but that's not what it's intended for.

Visit Scotland (née the Scottish Tourist Board) may have a bone to pick with National Trust For Scotland over an image the latter just poster on its X (née Twitter) feed. Especially considering the caption National Trust For Scotland decided to give it.

“Ah, summer in Scotland!” said the post cheerily, dripping with irony, alongside a  skin crawling image of possibly tens or hundreds of thousands of midges swarming around a tent pitched on the Mar Lodge Estate National Nature Reserve in the heart of the Cairngorms. 

If you zoom in on the image, you’ll get a better idea of just how dense this swarm is. You’d certainly want to keep your mouth closed and nose pinched if you were forced to go out in that, and don’t even think about the bite potential – we’d recommend a hazmat suit (though there are other ways to avoid midge bites).

It truly is like something out of a backwoods horror movie.

Midges are always an issue in Scotland in the summer (and an issue that Visit Scotland doesn’t tend to highlight, naturally). And after a few scorching summers in the UK, this summer has been been a bit of a washout (they call it a “dreich” summer in Scotland – and midges love a damp summer. But this particularly dense swarm reminds us of those infamous Mississippi mayfly invasions.

According to STV News, “Females lay their first eggs in the spring and don’t need to take a bite or any blood to be able to do this, but they do need a blood meal before laying every new batch of eggs after that – and they can lay three more batches before autumn if conditions are right.”

So they’re still biting, even though we’re into the fall now.

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Bison-created traffic jams are nothing new in Yellowstone, but this great little vid adds an extra dimension of entertainment. Because in this case it’s a gang of bikers who’re being held up by herd of the slow moving beasts, and made even better by a slightly nervous-sounding commentary: “We’re now in the middle of this mess. We’re surrounded.”

And also – it’s a very big herd of bison.

Amazingly, the vid – even though it was shot in Yellowstone National Park – didn’t come from our usual source for wild animal encounters, Tourons of Yellowstone. Though, to be fair, although one biker does get a little close at one point, no one actually appears to be acting like a touron here – they appear to manage as best and safely as they can under the circumstances.

The vid was posted to the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Facebook group last month by Cindy Bartlett, who we assume is the person providing the commentary (“Super sketchy! I don’t like this!”) and comes your way via Outdoors.com.

Bison don’t exactly lust for human blood and they’re certainly not predators, but they’re known as unpredictable beasts that can stampede without provocation and charge at people, gore them and toss them up into the air. Like many animals, they attack when they feel threatened, so under certain circumstances, they do pose a danger to humans.

The best thing to do is keep your distance, but you can read more about bison and avoiding being gored by one here.

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Yellowstone National Park officials have issued a warning for visitors to stay away from bull elk during fall mating season, which is now in full swing.

Their language of love is not the same as ours – no whispering sweet nothings or taking the softly, softly approach. They are unpredictable and much more aggressive during this time of year – they can run quickly and may change direction without warning.

Attacks can be unprovoked and unpredictable and officials have reminded visitors that they are responsible for their own safety. They suggest following this advice:

• Always keep at least 25 yards (23m), or the length of two full-sized buses, from elk.
• If an elk approaches you, back away immediately.
• Look around corners before exiting buildings or walking around blind spots.
  
  And if an elk charges or runs towards you:
  
• Find shelter in your vehicle or behind a tall, sturdy barrier as quickly as possible.
• If nearby shelter is not available, run away.

What not to do

Despite advice, these tourists were filmed blocking the path of a bull elk as it tried to cross the road at Yellowstone.

Officials understand that visitors want mementoes of their trip and have offered the following recommendations for taking photos:

• Give them room, use your zoom.
• Never approach or pursue animals to take their picture.
• Lenses with focal lengths of 300mm or greater are recommended for adequate reach.

Learn more in our guide, how to enjoy elk rutting season safely.

Visit the National Park Service website for information on planning your visit.

One 60-year-old hiker was stung over 10 times when an eight-member hiking team was attacked by a swarm of Asian giant hornets in Taiwan yesterday (August 27).

The group was hiking on New Taipei’s Shiding Hiking Trail when the incident took place. Emergency services received the call for help at around 4pm local time. The New Taipei City Fire Department Fourth Brigade dispatched 15 vehicles and 32 firefighters to the scene, reports Taiwan News.

Three of the hikers were stung; one 60-year-old man, Mr Zhuang, was stung more than 10 times, while two of his colleagues – a 71-year-old man, Mr Chen, and a 56-year-old woman called Lin – were stung twice. All three had chest tightness, swelling from bites and other discomfort. 

Emergency crew accompanied the hikers to the trailhead and sent them to Taipei Municipal Wanfang Hospital for treatment. 

The hiking group had set around 9am Wednesday morning and ran into the swarm of hornets just before completing their trek.

Accorinding to Commander of the Fourth Brigade Chen Chih-wei, fall is the peak season for hornet activity. He advised that the best thing for hikers to do it they encounter hornets is to remain calm and avoid panicking or making rapid movements. Although counter-intuitive, a slow retreat your best chance of avoiding stings. Hornets will more likely go into attack mode if you make sudden movements – such as swatting motions – or use objects to drive them away.

Asian giant hornet drones are usually between 35mm and 40mm (1.2in and 1.3in). An Asian giant hornet’s stinger is typically 6mm (0.25in) long and delivers a potent venom that can kill a human if they’re stung multiple times, or suffer a rare allergic reaction.

It’s also handy to know that one of the best insect repellents when it comes to hornets is mint (wasps don’t like it either) or catnip.

• The best insect repellents 2026: keep the bugs at bay when hiking and camping
• The best hiking water bottles 2026: stay hydrated at camp and on the trails

Areas of Joshua Tree National Park, including Cottonwood Visitor Center, parking area, restrooms and Cottonwood campground, have been closed due to increased bee activity.

Park officials have explained that in the summer, water becomes scarce and bees seek alternative sources of hydration. This can include water in bathrooms, condensation from air conditioners, and even visitor sweat.

They are closing the Cottonwood area to visitors for safety and to reduce the moisture that attracts the bees. This closure will reduce the water available for bees and encourage them to disperse.

Officials have confirmed that the bees are the aggressive honeybee type, and it’s not the first time areas of Joshua Tree National Park have been closed because of them. In 2020 Jumbo Rocks and Cottonwood had to be sealed off because of big spikes in the numbers of swarming bees.

Stay safe around bees

Last year, Joshua Tree National Park officials offered the following advice to stay safe around bees.

• If you are allergic to bee stings, appropriate medication and consider avoiding recreating in areas with large amounts of bees. Consider visiting the park in the cool, winter season when bees are less active.
• If you are around bees, do not jerk toward or away from them, jump up and down, or swat at them. Instead, move away from them slowly and remain calm. These animals are focused on getting water.
• Keep all water or liquids tightly sealed and turn off your car air conditioner 5 minutes before arriving in a bee-heavy area. It is common to see these animals swarming around open water bottles and underneath cars to grab a quick drink.
• Wear long-sleeved, sweat-wicking clothing to prevent attracting bees. Breathable layers can provide extra protection from stings and the heat of the sun.

Officials also reassured visitors: “Bees are an essential part of Joshua Tree’s desert ecosystem. Just like any other wildlife in the park, this is their home. We ask that you please treat them respectfully, and they will do the same.”

• How to treat insect bites and stings

A diabetic hiker who spent the night in Colorado's backcountry and nearly ran out of life-saving medication says she panicked when she was charged by a bear and became lost.

According to Alamosa Volunteer Search And Rescue, the out-of-state woman was hiking at Zapata Falls in the San Luis Valley on August 12 with a partner. She wanted to continue hiking beyond the falls, but her partner did not feel comfortable and stayed behind. After an unspecified amount of time, the partner contacted mountain rescue and reported the woman as overdue.

"The hiker's phone and insulin pump both had depleted batteries and were unable to be reached remotely," reports the AVSAR, who describe the woman as fairly athletic, "but not experienced enough or prepared to spend a night in the wilderness."

The woman's medical condition in addition to the rugged terrain, threat of impending weather and her choice of clothing – she was dressed in shorts, a halter top, a red hoodie and carrying only a small hydration pack – an immediate and extensive response was enacted.

Search teams scoured the area on foot and by drone until nightfall, but the only potential clue they uncovered was "a peculiarly behaving bear in the vicinity of the subject's last known location," which they monitored until it got dark.

Once dark conditions made searching unfeasible, crews continued their work back at base using cell phone forensics, despite the odds being stacked against the ill-equipped hiker.

"At times the daunting situational elements made the possibility of a positive outcome unrealistic," writes the team.

The following morning, divers were deployed to the waterfall to search underwater, but at 11 a.m. the subject was spotted by a drone pilot thanks to her bright red hoodie. A rescue dog made first contact with the woman before crews reached her on foot. She told them that after intentionally separating from her partner, she came face-to-face with a "large" black bear approximately two meters away.

"The subject was reportedly charged and chased for a short bit, and then she continued to flee in panic farther up the mountain and into the wilderness, quickly becoming lost and disoriented."

Fortunately, the hiker had brought a bottle of 50 glucose pills to maintain her blood sugar levels, though she told rescuers she was down to her last two. Despite the severity of the situation, her only injuries were sunburn and dehydration, and she was able to hike to safety.

Staying safe in bear country

Rescue crews point to the quick and coordinated response of their volunteers in addition to the woman's choice of wearing a bright red hoodie, which meant she was visible. They remind hikers to always make yourself searchable, and to avoid some of the mistakes made in this case with the following advice:

• If you become lost in the wilderness, stay put. Do not attempt to continue farther into dangerous terrain. The farther you venture from your last known position, the more difficult it becomes for rescuers to find you.
• Always carry the 10 hiking essentials, even if you're only planning on a short day hike, including: some sort of emergency blanket for warmth, a signaling device like a Garmin InReach, and a firestarter to help rescuers find you. Carry an ample supply of personal medication, more than you think you may need. 
• Know what to do if you meet a bear and understand local wildlife and wildlife safety. Black bears are primarily scavengers, and while they may chase you off from their territory, they are highly unlikely to pursue or hunt you. Carry bear spray to use in defense as a last resort.

Remember that it's always safest to hike with others, and if your partner wants to turn back early, you should remain with them and complete your desired a hike another day.

• The best emergency blankets, bags and shelters

This July, a 72-year-old man was picking huckleberries in Flathead National Forest by himself when he was attacked by a female grizzly bear. He managed to access his handgun, shooting and killing the bear and surviving the encounter with serious injuries. 

After a summer that brought several high-profile grizzly bear attacks – a veteran who was mauled while hiking in Grand Teton National Park and a Canadian trail runner who says she was saved by her hair clip – some are asking if guns should be as ubiquitous as hiking boots and backpacks when it comes to recreating in bear country.

The idea of using a firearm against bears is something bear biologist and Tooth and Claw podcast host Wes Larson tells us he hears a lot, but it’s not what he recommends.

“There are people out there that would say, ‘oh, I'd trust my gun much more than I would trust bear spray,’ but the thing about a gun is, you're shooting one projectile. It has one path. And if you miss, you know you're in trouble.”

When a grizzly bear is sprinting towards you at 30 miles per hour and you’re panicking, the chances of squeezing off a perfect shot seem unlikely, and even if you get lucky, the problem of a defensive bear that wants to kill you won’t necessarily be solved.

“If you hit the bear and you don't kill it, you're in a lot more trouble than you would have been otherwise because now that bear's probably gonna be enraged."

Avoidance is the best deterrent 

It’s understandable that you would try to use a gun against a bear if you happen to be carrying one when it charges you, but wildlife experts are insistent that a firearm really doesn’t need to become one of your hiking essentials. 

“Avoiding conflicts with bears is easier than dealing with conflicts,” said Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks in a statement following the July incident.

How can you avoid bears in bear country? Well unless you stay out of the backcountry altogether, there’s always the possibility of an encounter, but wildlife experts at Parks Canada have some tips to reduce your chances of meeting a bear.

• Stay on designated trails – bears are more likely to avoid well-trafficked areas.
• Hike in larger groups when possible.
• Make noise – talk (even to yourself), clap your hands or trekking poles together, blow your whistle.
• Keep your dog on a leash as they can provoke defensive behavior in bears.
• Watch out for signs of bear activity, such as scat, and leave the area immediately if you think a bear is nearby.

Failing that, choose bear spray over bullets

If you do all of the above and still find yourself face-to-face with a charging bear, don’t lament the fact that you don’t have a handgun in your holster – just make sure you have your bear spray, says Larson.

“Bear spray shoots out a whole cloud of aerosolized pepper spray, so when the bear is still coming at you, it passes through that cloud.”

Mid-charge, the bear inhales that pepper spray – it gets in its eyes, nose and throat and it's a terrible experience for the bear, according to Larson.

“It's unlike anything they’ve ever experienced, and they just want to get out of there instantly. It changes the dynamic, and you don't have to be a good shot with it. So it works much better, and it's a lot less precise of a tool.”

It also means there's a chance both you and the bear will get out of the encounter alive.

Deploying bear spray doesn’t take the same training as target practice, but you’ll still want to read our article on how to use bear spray before you hit the trail so you know exactly how and when to press the trigger.

Carrying bear spray is recommended in most places where bears are present, however it’s important to note that it is banned in Yosemite National Park and on the John Muir Trail where black bears are present. You can buy it online, such as this one on Amazon, but remember that you can’t fly with it if you are traveling to the mountains for a hiking trip, so see a local outfitter when you arrive. 

• Wildlife safety: 8 tips for surprise encounters

With warm weather ongoing and Labor Day still weeks away, you might not be thinking about incoming fall yet – but your local bears are.

Wildlife officials in Montana have issued a warning to campers and hikers to expect increased bear activity now through November as the state's bruins ready themselves for winter torpor. The announcement, detailed in the Great Falls Tribune, comes days after a bear attacked a three-year-old child in a tent when food was left unsupervised at a campsite. 

Bears across North America start fattening up for winter – a process known as hyperphagia – as early as mid-August. Colorado Parks and Wildlife explains that this feeding frenzy sees bears spending up to 20 hours a day trying to eat more than 20,000 calories to gain as much weight as possible before their main food sources are buried in snow and they enter a state of rest.

This time period typically sees the biggest increase in human-bear conflicts, with bears active for longer periods throughout the day and conditions ideal for hiking and camping. The problem is intensified by habituation, which is when bears start to associate humans with food and lose their fear.

Staying safe in bear country

If you're recreating or residing in bear country, now is a good time for a refresher in bear safety – use the following advice to avoid unwanted encounters this fall:

• Stay diligent when hiking and camping in bear country.
• Know what to do if you meet a bear.
• Secure all food when camping in bear lockers or bring your own bear canister.
• If you are backpacking in bear country, know how to hang a bear bag.
• Never leave food or trash unattended in your campsite, and never keep food inside your tent.
• Do not feed bears.

• Best hiking boots: hit the trails

DO NOT TRY THIS AT HOME! Or at the beach. Or anywhere else. Trying to scare off a bear with a shovel is a potentially terminal idea, no matter how many cookies the bear has stolen.

But it certainly makes for a video you can’t peel your eyes away from.

The confrontation took place earlier this week at Pope Beach in South Lake Tahoe, and was caught on camera by 18-year-old Derek Sears, who was part of a party at the beach. His unattended open cooler soon became too much of a draw for an opportunist black bear, who quickly zoned in on the food inside. 

“It took my cookie!” protests Sears very loudly.

Initially, they try to scare the bear off by throwing a beach chair at it – it may be Sears himself who does this judging by the way the cameras bobs down and up just before the chair appears flying though the air – but when that fails another unidentified guy runs towards the bear, brandishing a shovel at it.

At first he hits the shovel on a bench to try to scare the bear away, but when that fails, it looks like he actually whacks the bear in the face.

At which point the bear decides it's had enough and runs off into the woods.

But honestly, is it worth risking your life for the contents of a cooler? Do the sensible thing if you’re in bear country and keep food sealed in secured, airtight containers if you don’t need immediate access to it, and definitely don’t leave food unattended. They’re just two basics of bear safety.

Lake Tahoe is in northern California along the California/Nevada border and is a place well known for frequent bear encounters.

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Two polar bears have killed a Canadian worker in a rare attack at an Arctic Radar Station.

The employee, who is yet to be named, was working for the Canadian government on Brevoort Island, a remote and uninhabited part of Nunavut territory in northeastern Canada.

Despite the fact colleagues responded and one of the bears was killed, the worker's injuries proved fatal.

"An attack by two polar bears has resulted in the loss of one of our valued employees," said Nasittuq Corporation, which runs defence radar sites for the Canadian government, in a statement.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends, and colleagues affected by this loss."

Polar bear attacks on humans are rare, but this is at least the second recorded deadly incident involving a polar bear since 2023.

As more people venture into the arctic seeking adventure, and global warming forces more endangered bears to spend time on land looking for food sources, chances of human-polar bear encounters are increasing (although, still mighty rare). 

How to survive a polar bear attack

If you're planning an Arctic expedition, read these pointers on protecting yourself from a polar bear attack:

• Carry deterrents, such as a bear horn and bear spray.
• Understand the warning signs - is the bear sniffing the air and staring directly at you?
• Stay calm and don’t run - it’s better to back away and take a wide detour.
• Communicate clearly with your group
• If you think you’re going to come under attack, arm yourself with anything you can use as a weapon - ice axes or trekking poles - and prepare to fight.

A family of mountain lions – possibly, or maybe they were just close friends – were caught on camera trotting along a hiking trail Monday morning at the Pleasanton Ridge Regional Park in California. 

Whether they were actually a family or not, it’s very unusual to see such a large group of mountain lions. It’s actually fairly rare to spot a single mountain lion – it's estimated that there are about 4,500 mountain lions across the state of California, according to the UC Davis California Mountain Lion Project.

The video was shot by runner Davor Desancic, who spotted them where the Courdet Trail meets the Ridge Line Trail at around 6:15am. Desancic said he didn't hear the mountain lions – he just suddenly saw them, about 500 yards away.

Desancic told 7News that he thought the group looked like three young mountain lions and their mother.

Desancic didn’t feel any sense of threat, and another user of the trail interviewed by the local new station was similarly more fascinated that afraid:

“I just think that it is awesome that there is this kind of wildlife thriving in the Bay,” said a hiker called Danny. “They're usually not dangerous if you stay away from them.” 

But not everybody was quite so laid back.

“If I’d been the one taking that video, I definitely would have been like, ‘Okay, that's a little scary there,” said a hiker called Camille. “I think it was kind of trippy because we just hiked that trail so kind of seeing where we had just been and then seeing the lions, that was kind of cool.”

Read our recommendations for what you should do if you meet a mountain lion while hiking.

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A three-year-old child was injured in a bear attack on Sunday after unsecured food items were left lying around a Montana campsite.

The incident took place at around 10 p.m. at a private campground near Red Lodge, southwest of Billings. A Facebook post by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks says that the subadult female bear attacked the child inside a tent. Game wardens and bear specialists responded and quickly found the reason for the attack: garbage, a camping cooler and food had been left unsecured inside and around the tent.

"The black bear involved in the incident had no history of conflicts. However, the bear had likely become food-conditioned and human-habituated after accessing unsecured attractants in the area," writes the MFWP.

The child was transported to a medical facility and no further details have been issued about their condition. The MFWP set a trap at the campsite on Sunday night and captured the bear the following afternoon. The bear was then euthanized.

How to secure food in bear country

This case highlights the importance of securing all food and toiletries when camping in bear country. Bears are attracted by scents and leaving food unattended can cause them to become habituated – meaning they lose their fear of humans. This can have deadly consequences for both humans and bears.

When you are camping in bear country, always use bear lockers provided to secure anything with a scent, including food, toothpaste, chapstick and deodrant. If no lockers are available, you can bring your own bear canister, while some official advice is to secure food in the trunk of a locked vehicle. However be aware that bears have been known to cause damage to cars when they know there is food inside. Park your vehicle away from your tent.

If you are backpacking, you will need to learn how to hang a bear bag so that you can secure your food in a tree while you sleep. Learn more in our article on backpacking in bear country.

• Wildlife safety: 8 tips for surprise encounters

Just when you thought it was safe to go back in the water… Although this video footage wasn’t shot around Amity Island (the fictional location for Jaws) you won’t be able to watch it without John Williams’s famous “da-dum, da-dum,” music going through your head.

It was, in fact, shot in Half Moon Bay, California, by Oakland science teacher Ian Walters, when he was out kayaking and noticed a huge fin trailing behind his friend's kayak.

“It was a beautiful, calm, foggy day. I noticed a really big dorsal fin. Further down, I noticed a very big tail. We both just tried to keep each other calm. We watched it circle around,” Walters told KRON4

He suspected it was a great white shark from its classic triangular-shaped fin, which experts examining the footage later confirmed, estimating it to be about 14 feet long. (Great whites can grow up to 20 feet long.)

Luckily it showed no signs of threatening behavior; it just seemed to be curious.

“We watched it kind of go back around and start following me,” said Walters. “And we just tried to keep each other calm and not give any reason for a reaction from the shark, and just led it toward some seals and eventually it let us go.

“It was pretty magical to be near one like that,” he added. “The apex of the apex predators. It wasn’t aggressive at all. The experience was mostly surreal.” 

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Beware hungry bears if you’re hiking or walking in New Hampshire’s White Mountains, because they’re after your picnic basket warn park authorities.

Yeah sure, this ain’t Jellystone, you might be thinking. But the warning is deadly serious. In a perfect example of bear habituation in action, park officials say that the bears have grown so used to being around people that they’re following hikers and campers and almost begging for food. 

Since mid-July, forest staff have received near daily reports of food-conditioned bears interacting with people in the area. Bears have been reported destroying tents and backpacks as they look for easy meals and there have been confrontations between bears and dogs. 

Frequent encounters between bears and hikers occurred along the Lincoln Woods, Bondcliff, Franconia Brook, Lincoln Brook and Black Pond Trails, and at the Liberty Springs and Thirteen Falls Tent sites. 

“Bears that have become habituated to humans are following campers and begging for food,” says the National Forest Service. 

“If you’re hiking in places like the White Mountains, you’re going to see bears,”  New Hampshire Fish and Game Program Supervisor Andrew Timmins told local news services. “The key is to recognize the bear is not approaching you because it’s aggressive. The bear is approaching you because it could be food conditioned and it’s used to getting food tossed to it.”

Which may sound cute, but seriously, you do not want to encourage bears to start taking food off you. It’ll all end in tears, and possibly other bodily fluids. It’s always good to familiarize yourself with bear encounter safety tips.

Timmins added that New Hampshire hasn’t seen a bear fatality in hundreds of years. But, if people aren’t careful, bears that get too comfortable around humans may end up having to be euthanized for safety reasons.

The problem isn’t just people actively feeding the bears, but also visitors who aren’t storing their food correctly. If food isn’t kept in a properly sealed container, bears will be drawn to the scent and follow hikers or enter campsites.

Campers and hikers are advised to maintain clean campsites and store all food and garbage securely and out of reach of bears, and not inside tents. A bear canister is your best friend in these circumstances. If you don’t have one, the Forest Service has several available to use for free at the Lincoln Woods Visitor Center in Lincoln, and at the Campton, Gorham and Conway ranger stations.

Ideally, the Forest Service wants to reverse the habituation and food conditioning process of the bears, so all visitors need to heed their advice to stop this danger accelerating.

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An experienced hiker in Utah escaped a scary encounter with a black bear and her cub on a trail only to run straight into a moose instead.

But Greg Rothman, who was running on the Desolation Trail in Cotton Canyon at the time of the double whammy of wildlife encounters, believes the moose may even have played a part in helping to stop the bear from chasing him.

Rothman shared his experience with a local TV outlet after reports of another hiker being attacked by a bear in the nearby Mill D North Fork Trail on Monday. That hiker was left with puncture wounds in his arms and had to drive himself to hospital. The bear in that incident was euthanized.

Rothman’s encounter happened a few days earlier. 

“I basically ran smack dab into a mother bear on the trail,” says Rothman.

He started to act big and slowly back away – as you’re advised to do in bear encounters if it looks like the bear might approach – but then he discovered a complication that added to the potential danger.

“I turned around and saw a baby cub 15 to 20 yards behind me – at that point my stomach just dropped,” says Rothman.

“The mother bear gave me multiple warning signs. Grunting, jaw clacking. I didn’t get any false charges – a lot of dirt throwing, standing on hind legs – but she was blocking my path so she didn’t have any where to go.”

So he decided that making a run for it was the only choice. He says he, “ran for 30 seconds down the trail to try to create more space. I was still being followed by the mother bear.”

And then the plot twist.

“I came around the corner and ran into a moose,” says Rothman. “Full rack. Startled the moose, which is also just horrible.”

According to the local news channel, Rothman told their reporter that he thinks the moose, “may have played a role in keeping him safe from the bear”, but the details become a little vague. He does mention that he’ll be carrying bear spray with him in future, though.

And here’s a new video report about that other attack we mentioned:

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Wildlife officers in southern Colorado have issued a public warning after seeing a "worriesome" increase in human-bear conflicts this summer. Earlier this year, we reported that 2023 had brought a significant drop in human-bear conflicts in the state.

According to a press release issued by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, significantly more bear traps have already been set this summer compared to last year, and they're not sure of the season for the uptick.

“It’s weird because things are green, we’ve had decent moisture and natural food is available, so it’s hard to explain why we are having so many issues,” says CPW Area Wildlife Manager Adrian Archuleta of Durango. 

“It’s been hot and heavy here for the last two or three weeks, and it’s not showing signs of slowing down."

Though it's normal for bear activity to increase ahead of hyperphagia, when bears fatten up before going into winter torpor, that doesn't typically occur until late summer early fall.

The news release explains that one reason for the increase might be down to more bears living in "marginal habitats" closer to human habitation. Regardless of the cause, however, CPW has a clear message for everyone in southern Colorado: remove attractants from your home and keep a clean camp.

“Incidents start with a bear getting into one cooler at a campground, and then a few weeks later, we have a bear getting into a tent or leaning on hard-sided campers,” says Archuleta, who added that at-home attractants like pet food, unsecured trash, uncleaned BBQ grills and hummingbird feeders also present an issue.

“The incidents people think are small – like that cooler or pet food – lead to behavior that presents a danger to human health and safety.”

“As this year is proving, just because you haven’t seen a bear in several years, doesn’t mean that one won’t show up this week and take advantage of a human food source. Make those food sources unavailable and a bear will move on," says Kevin Bryan, District Wildlife Manager in Cedaredge.

Staying safe while camping in bear country

The best way to deal with bear encounters is to avoid them in the first place. If you are camping in bear country, the CPW has the following advice:

• Do not keep food in your vehicle; roll up windows and lock the doors of your vehicles.
• If no bear lockers are available when car-camping, secure all food and coolers in the trunk of a locked vehicle.
• Keep a clean camp, whether you’re in a campground or in the backcountry.
• When camping in the backcountry, hang food 100 feet or more from the campsite in a bear bag; don’t bring any food into your tent.
• Set up your camping stove and camp kitchen well away from your tent and prepare all food at a distance; wash dishes thoroughly.

Learn more in our article on camping in bear country.

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When it comes to staying safe in bear country, you've probably heard about the virtues of making noise while you're hiking to scare bears away and carrying bear spray in case a grizzly charges you. But slugging a bear in the face? That's a new one.

The unusual uppercut technique worked for one BC cyclist recently, however, when he was riding his bike near Anderson Flats Park and startled a grizzly and her two cubs who were in a clearing near the road.

In an interview with CBC, Parks Canada conservation officer Matthew Corbett says the mama bear immediately charged the cyclist, who put his bike between himself and the bear to ward off injury and this gave him time to think about a story he'd heard years ago.

"He told me that he remembered hearing a story on CBC at some point where a man punched a bear in the nose to get it off of him," says Corbett.

Then, he says, the quick-thinking man "swung as hard as he could" and clocked the bear in the face. The surprised grizzly took off into the woods and the cyclist was able to ride to safety. 

Staying safe in bear country

While a swift jab to the nose seems to have worked in this instance, as well as back in a 2017 incident in Vancouver, it's not the recommended tactic for staying safe around grizzlies.

The best way to deal with a bear encounter is to prevent it in the first place, by making noise and staying aware as you travel through the backcountry. If you see a bear, don't run as this may prompt it to chase you. Staying facing it and back away slowly with your bear spray in hand.

If a grizzly bear charges you and you are unable to deploy your bear spray, the official advice is to play dead, lying face down with your hands interlaced behind your neck for protection. Keep holding your bear spray as this saved one hiker earlier this year when an attacking bear bit the canister and it exploded. Learn more in our article on what to do if you meet a bear.

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While US hikers have to be wary of grizzly bears, elks and bison, it seems hikers in the French alps have been facing a different threat recently, with two incidents involving Pyrenean mountain dogs, or “patou dogs” as they are commonly known in France.

They might look like big, cuddly, fluffy hounds to most of us but they are also working dogs, who, it seems, can be overzealous in their livestock-protecting duties.

In the most recent incident, on July 21, a hiker in the Alps had to be rescued by helicopter after being attacked by a pack of up to 10 patous.

The 32-year-old woman was hiking in the Vercors massif area in the Rhône Valley, and had bivouacked overnight on the Sornin plateau, only to be attacked by the dogs the next morning.

After one dog repeatedly bit her rucksack, she made a run for it, only for other dogs to appear and give chase. She called emergency services, and CRS Alpes told her to climb a tree and wait for them to arrive. They then sent a helicopter to help her off mountain. She was physically unharmed, but shocked and scared, according to The Connexion.

This follows an incident on July 11 when a dog owner, Michel Gobet, and his puppy were injured by two Patou guard dogs in a car park near near the col de l’Izoard (Hautes-Alpes, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur).

Gobet picked up his puppy as the dogs started to attack but one of the patous ripped the puppy from his arms.

The nine-month old bichon frisé was left with life-threatening injuries and had to be rushed to a vet for treatment, costing more than €800 ($870).

Gobet told told BFM DICI he has been left “traumatized”.

The patous are used by farmers in the Alps to protect their herds and flocks from predators. They are essentially guard dogs, trained to defend farm animals and not trained as if they were family pets only. They are specifically taught to defend and attack in case of threats.

The owner of the two dogs that attacked the puppy says he is sympathetic but unsure what to do.

"I pay the rent for the mountain and I have a legitimate right to protect my herd. But now I don't know what to do because the risk will always exist.”

The farmers say the sheer numbers of hikers – and mountain bikers – who are visiting the area are part of the problem. A spokesman for the local authority after the most recent attack said, “Frankly, we've had more problems between Patous and tourists than wolf attacks since the start of the season.”

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A 72-year-old man shot and killed a grizzly bear that launched an attack on him while he was picking huckleberries, in what has been described by experts as a “surprise defensive encounter.”

The man was alone near Columbia Falls in Flathead National Forest lands about two miles (3.2km) north of Columbia Falls when the adult female charged him last Thursday. He suffered significant injuries before killing the bear with a handgun, according to the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks.

The man was later hospitalized. The victim’s name and further details on his condition were not released.

“Montana is bear country. People should be prepared to encounter grizzly or black bears in Montana. Avoiding conflicts with bears is easier than dealing with conflicts,” the department said in the release. They advise carrying bear spray and traveling in groups in such areas.

The bear in this case was probably reacting defensively to protect its cubs, said department spokesperson Dillon Tabish, although no sightings of any actual cubs had been confirmed at the time the press release was issued.

Wildlife workers have set up cameras in the area to try to confirm the presence of any cubs. If cubs are found, it’s uncertain if they would be captured because it is difficult to find facilities qualified to take them, said Tabish.

“Depending on the age, we might leave them in the wild because they have a better chance of survival, rather than have to euthanize them.”

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A man has been caught at Yellowstone National Park giving a picture-perfect demonstration of how not to photograph the local wildlife, squatting down right beside a herd of bison to take close-ups at dangerously close range.

The man, wearing swim shorts and slides, completely ignored advice from the National Park Service (NPS) to stay at least 25 yards (23 meters) from bison and elk at all times, and to ideally watch them from the safety of a vehicle.

A video of the encounter, which you can see below, was shared online by park visitor Scott Hansen, and was posted this week on Instagram account TouronsOfYellowstone – a page that calls out bad behavior at US National Parks (often involving wildlife).

The NPS frequently reminds visitors to keep their distance around wildlife, particularly when taking photos. Earlier this year, Park Rangers warned visitors explicitly about the dangers of getting caught up in the excitement of seeing animals and wanting to capture the moment for posterity,

"If you want to take a picture of the animals, use a zoom lens on your camera," wrote officials in a blog post in February. "If you are close enough to take a selfie, you are wayyyy too close. If you see an animal, you are responsible for backing up to a safe distance, even if the animal moves toward you."

Be bison aware

Like all wild animals, bison can be unpredictable, and although they may seem docile at first, their mood can change quickly. Females (cows) are more likely to be aggressive when defending calves during the spring, while males (bulls) can be short-tempered during the breeding season in late summer.

"Approaching bison threatens them, and they may respond by bluff charging, head bobbing, pawing, bellowing, or snorting," advises the NPS. "These are warning signs that you are too close and that a charge is imminent."

For more advice, take a look at our guides how to avoid being gored by a bison and wildlife safety: eight tips for surprise encounters.

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Bison are easily aggravated during their mating season, as one family learned the hard way during a visit to Yellowstone National Park. The two adults and two children make the mistake of getting too close to a bull during the rut, and ended up being chased between trees by the agitated animal. 

A video of the incident, shared via Instagram account TouronsOfNationalParks this week, shows the animal charging with its rail raised and head bobbing in a characteristic display of aggression, narrowly avoiding trampling a young girl. In the clip, which you can see below, you can see the bison driving the visitors away in clouds of dust before eventually leaving the area.

The family was lucky to escape unscathed, and each year there are reports from US National Parks of other visitors who aren't so fortunate. Last year two people were gored by bison within a week at US National Parks, and in June an 83-year-old woman was injured in a bison attack at Yellowstone.

In its safety advice for Yellowstone, the National Park Service warns all visitors to stay at least 25 yards (23 meters) from bison and elk, and 100 yards (91 meters) from large predators like bears and wolves.

"Give bison space when they are near a campsite, trail, boardwalk, parking lot, or in a developed area," warns the NPS. "If need be, turn around and go the other way to avoid interacting with a wild animal in close proximity. 

"Approaching bison threatens them, and they may respond by bluff charging, head bobbing, pawing, bellowing, or snorting. These are warning signs that you are too close and that a charge is imminent."

For more advice, take a look at our guides how to avoid being gored by a bison and wildlife safety: eight tips for unexpected encounters.

• The best binoculars: enjoy watching wildlife from a safe distance

Goats on a Subaru may not have the same ring as Snakes on a Plane, but this great little video clip turns out to be every bit as entertaining.

The Subaru in question belongs to a TikTok user going by the name of superglamp, who parked his vehicle while he was off hiking Tour de Abyss, near Idaho Springs, Colorado. He returned to find hoofprints all over the car and knew something was up…

Luckily, another guy, @Michael Ryno Photography managed to capture the culprits in action – a couple of mountain goats who clambered over the Subaru, with one of them mounting the roof carrier, and then jumping up an down on it vigorously.

Was it treating the carrier as a mini-dancefloor or was it testing out the car’s suspension? Either way, both car and carrier withstood the onslaught, reports superglamp.

As some commenters on the post suggest, the clip almost looks like an advert for Subaru. And the company itself even responded to the original TikTok video (we’ve embedded the Instagram version, because the image is larger), saying, “People have said we're the GOAT but didn't think this was what it meant.”

Responding to another comment about insurance claims, superglamp replied, “Shockingly there weren’t any dents but I still have the prints on the car because I don’t want to wash them off.”

We’re not so sure superglamp would be so slow getting the sponge out if the goat had peed on his Subaru too.

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You can hear the fear in this female hiker’s voice as pleads with a grizzly not to come any closer; “Please don’t come here. Thank you, please go,” she quivers with a politeness that’s at odds with the scary encounter.

And yet she captures it all on video. Brave? Daft? Or just how we’re hard-wired to react in the social media age?

The woman ran into the bear – which at time looks to be just a few feet away – at Glacier National Park in Montana. While it clearly shows some interest in her, it luckily didn’t ultimately engage with her.

The hiker in this instance seems to have done all the right things. A caption says that she, “got low, got out her bear spray”, which goes along with the advice our expert gives about a grizzly encounter in our article What to do if you meet a bear, which is:

1) Don't try to run – a grizzly or brown bear can easily outrun you and it may trigger an aggressive response
2) Play dead – if you are approached by a grizzly or brown bear, lay flat on your stomach with your hands clasped around your neck
3) Spread your legs – this makes it more difficult for the bear to turn you over
4) Fight back – if the attack becomes overly aggressive and if you have no other choice, fight back, ideally with bear spray

You can see the bear spray creep into the frame right at the end of the clip, when, thankfully, the bear heads off and away. Either that, or it’s hiding behind that tree…

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Less than half a mile from the end of a 50 mile ultra run, Jon-Kyle Mohr race nearly came to a very sticky end when he almost literally ran straight into a black bear.

Last Sunday, Mohr, 33, from June Lake in California, was coming to the end of an epic run from his home town, over the Sierra Nevada, then down into the Yosemite Valley when the encounter occurred, reports the Los Angeles Times.

It was dark by that point, and Mohr suddenly saw a large shape lumbering towards him from the corner of his eye. Next thing he knew, there was a sharp pain in his shoulder and Mohr was sent sprawling. Then he heard some people nearby shouting, “Bear!”

The black bear also so surprised by the collision that it dropped a bag of garbage that it had been carrying in its jaws.

The annoyed bear started to approach Mohr. “It was coming back at me,” he told the news outlet.

Mohr he did what all the bear safety guides tell you to do in a situation like this – he made himself look as big and threatening as possible, yelling and banging his running poles on the ground (there’s a use for running poles that rarely gets highlighted in their marketing material). 

The collision happened on the road near Happy Isles, not far from the Vernal Falls trailhead, which luckily is one of the most populated places in the park. Some people from a nearby campsite came to help him out, banging on pots.

All of which had the desired effect on the bear, which decided to cut its losses and skedaddle, leaving Mohr with a few scratches and some torn clothes. And, presumably, somebody’s bag of garbage.

He hadn’t posted an images to the socials, so here’s Mohr on a previous trek across the Sierra Nevada, just so you know what he looks like.

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A man visiting Yellowstone National Park has given a perfect demonstration of how not to photograph the native bison. Upon encountering a herd on the road, rather than staying within the safety of his vehicle as recommended by the National Park Service (NPS), the visitor got out and approached the animals, using his iPad to snap pictures at dangerously close range.

The man continued to draw nearer while other drivers stuck in a growing traffic jam watched in disbelief, and only moved when a Park Ranger intervened and told him to back off. A video of the encounter, shot by photographer Jackie Boesinger Meredyk and shared via infamous Instagram account TouronsOfYellowstone this week, shows just how close the man managed to get to the powerful animals.

"He reaches the herd of bison, who were being nudged forward by park law enforcement, and fearlessly stepped right up to the herd to get his shots," explained Boesinger Meredyk. "Stunned law enforcement officer says, 'You need to get 25 yards away' at which point the man ends his filming and so pleased with himself, returns to his car.”

Getting up close and personal with the wildlife is one of the biggest mistakes people make when visiting Yellowstone. Although bison and elk may seem docile at first, they are unpredictable and their behavior can change in an instant, particularly if they feel threatened. 

The National Park Service (NPS) warns visitors to stay at least 25 yards (23 meters) away from elk and bison at all times, and 100 yards (91 meters) away from wolves and bears. The safest place to watch wildlife is from inside your car (though pierced bodywork and punctured tires are still a risk if you're unlucky).

"Give bison space when they are near a campsite, trail, boardwalk, parking lot, or in a developed area. If need be, turn around and go the other way to avoid interacting with a wild animal in close proximity," says the NPS.

"Approaching bison threatens them, and they may respond by bluff charging, head bobbing, pawing, bellowing, or snorting. These are warning signs that you are too close and that a charge is imminent."

Bison attacks

Bison, like all wild animals, generally prefer to avoid close contact with people, but females can be particularly aggressive in the spring when defending their calves (also known as 'red dogs' for their ginger-colored fur), and males can be more prone to attack during the rutting season in late summer as they compete for dominance and the right to mate.

Last summer two people were gored by bison at US National Parks within a week, both of whom suffered abdominal injuries. The first victim was charged while walking near the north shore of Lake Yellowstone, while the second was attacked at Painted Canyon Trailhead in Theodore Roosevelt National Park.

"Bison are large, powerful, and wild," said the NPS in a statement at the time. "They can turn quickly and can easily outrun humans. Bulls can be aggressive during the rutting (mating) season, mid-July through August. Use extra caution and give them additional space during this time."

For more advice, see our guides how to avoid being gored by a bison and wildlife safety: eight tips for unexpected encounters.

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Bull elk can be particularly aggressive during late summer and early fall, as one driver learned the hard way at Jasper National Park in Canada. The animals are currently in their mating season (known as the rut), when males compete for dominance by displaying their antlers, bugling, and sometimes fighting rivals. It's a spectacular sight, but even careful drivers may find themselves facing a repair bill if a particularly aggressive bull takes a dislike to their vehicle.

A video of this particular incident (which you can see below) was shared online this week via Instagram account TouronsOfNationalParks. The account usually documents instances of bad behavior at sites of natural beauty around the world, often involving wildlife, but sometimes people just get unlucky.

"What the video does not show is that the bull elk came from the left side of the highway so traffic stopped to let it go across," explained photographer John Krampl, who shot the footage last September. "But, the cows were on the right side of the highway and the bull saw that car as being in between him and his cows so he became aggressive. Just acting his natural behaviour and unfortunately this car was in his way. "

"Though they might not appear threatening, elk can be aggressive and attack without warning," Parks Canada warns people planning a visit to Jasper. "In the spring calving season (May - June) female elk aggressively defend their young. During the fall mating season (Aug - Sept), male elk are particularly belligerent. Do not approach elk in any season as they are dangerous and can attack without warning."

Visitors are warned to stay at least 30 meters away from elk at all times, and never get between a male and a harem of females.

"Do not park your vehicle between a male and the females," Parks Canada says. "Elk may charge at your vehicle, which may result in damage

Elk safety

To keep yourself and your family safe, it's always best to travel together and keep children within arm's reach. During the rut, watch out for warning signs including male animals lowering their antlers towards you, pawing the ground, or thrashing at bushes. Agitated elk may also make short bluff charges before charging for real.

If you find yourself in close quarters with an elk, Parks Canada advises you to act dominant, and raise your arms or jacket to make yourself look larger. Maintain eye contact with the animal and move away, seeking protection behind a tree or vehicle. If you are knocked down, get up and move away; if you play dead, you may be trampled and seriously injured.

For more advice, take a look at our guides how to enjoy elk rutting season safely and wildlife safety: eight tips for surprise encounters.

• The best binoculars: enjoy watching wildlife from a safe distance

You don’t need to go down to the woods today to be in for a big bear-related surprise. Because the surprise was caught on camera and posted to YouTube.

The wonderful footage was captured on a trail cam located outside Red Lodge, Montana. It shows what happened when a black bear came across a couple of stuffed teddy bears in a wooded area – it snuggles down with them and starts to play.

Then a second bear comes along and joins in the fun, until the first guy leaves him  to it.

The video was posted by NBC Montana who don’t provide any context beyond: "Thanks to Don Redfoot for sending us this video of a couple of bears outside of Red Lodge having some fun with stuffed animals on a game cam."

But Outdoors.com did some internet digging and found this article from Great Falls Tribune from a few years back, which reveals that Don Redfoot and his wife setup trail cameras in their backyard, and left out stuffed animals ( "a stuffed bright orange teddy bear and small lion") to see if real-life animals would interact with them as far back as 2020 at least. (Where this ranks when it comes to bear habituation, we’re not sure.)

“The toys have led to some unusual interactions that the cameras have captured,” says the article. “A bear playing and rolling atop the stuffed bear; a squirrel knocking the lion toy off a boulder in an odd king-of-the-mountain showdown; deer walking past as well as the backside of a mountain lion.”

But this footage posted by NBC is clearly date-stamped 2024, so we can only assume Don has never captured anything quite this great before and wanted to let the world see it.

• What to do if you meet a bear: our safety guide

A dog-owner visiting Grand Teton National Park nearly learned a very tough lesson about wildlife safety after letting their pet off its leash near a herd of bison. A video recorded by another park visitor (which you can watch below) shows the two animals facing off against one another. The bison is very agitated by the curious dog, flicking its tail and kicking up clouds of dust, but luckily for the pet and its owner, it only makes a bluff charge to force the animal back.

Many wild animals, including elk, moose and bison, usually treat domestic dogs the same way as wolves, and will attack and try to trample them. These animals rarely attack humans, and if they do, it is often a result of them being spooked by a dog.

Pets are allowed in Grand Teton National Park, but there are strict rules to ensure they and the local wildlife are kept safe. They must be restrained at all times, and are not permitted inside facilities like visitor centers, or on trails.

"A good rule of thumb is that a pet may go anywhere a car may go: roads and road shoulders, campgrounds and picnic areas, parking lots, etc," advises the National Park Service (NPS). "Pets must be on a leash (six feet or less), under physical restraint, and within 30 feet of the roadway. Pets are not permitted on any park trails or in the backcountry."

Pets are not considered pack animals, so you can't load your four-legged companion up with a doggie backpack to carry your hiking gear. For a full list of rules and restrictions, take a look at the official Grand Teton National Park website.

Qualified service animals are allowed throughout the park, but must also be kept on a leash. People with service animals are asked to complete a service animal acknowledgement form at a visitor center when they arrive. Check out the full guidance for service animals.

If you're planning a hiking trip with your dog, there are many National Parks that are better suited. Our roundup of the 8 best National Parks for dogs has some great suggestions where pets are welcome to join your adventures.

• The best binoculars: enjoy watching wildlife from a safe distance

A Yukon runner who recently survived a grizzly bear attack has described how she thinks her hair clip played a role in saving her life.

According to a Facebook post from Yukon Conservation Officer Services, on the evening of Sunday, June 30, Vanessa Leegstra was running on the Trans Canada Trail connecting Pine Lake to Haines Junction with her dog on leash when she encountered a group of grizzly bears on the trail. 

"While the individual attempted to increase space, their dog broke free triggering a defensive reaction from one of the bears. The bear attacked the individual resulting in significant injuries requiring medical attention," writes the YCOS.

Leegstra is recovering in hospital from where she spoke to CBC news yesterday describing the attack. She says her dog chased the female bears away, causing the male grizzly to become territorial and round on her. Leegstra says she attempted to hide behind a tree for protection but the bruin reached her before she made it.

 "He grabbed my head and wrapped his paws around me. And I just remember the claws digging into my back. I could feel him biting my arm, my head."

However, Leegstra says she was wearing a large plastic hair clip which shattered when the bear bit into her head causing it to let go for long enough that she could get behind the tree. Her barking dog then distracted the bear, giving Leegstra enough time to escape onto the highway and call for help. In addition to a number of lacerations across her body and head, Leegstra suffered a broken arm in the attack.

YCOS reports that an officer was dispatched to the scene immediately where they euthanized a bear and closed a nearby campsite. Two additional bears have since been euthanized with efforts under way to recover the fourth bear.

"We recognize the public concern around euthanizing bears following a defensive attack. In circumstances like this, critical decisions are made in the interest of public safety and the safety of personnel, in conjunction with predator attack response protocols, using all information available," writes the department.

For her part, Leegstra tells CBC that she was born and raised in the Yukon and understands wildlife safety and recognizes the risks of recreating in bear country.

"I already had a lot of respect for grizzly bears and now I have even a more profound respect for them," she says. 

"I don't blame the bear and I don't blame myself or my dog. It just happened to be the wrong place at the wrong time."

Staying safe in bear country

If you're running, hiking or camping in grizzly country, it's important to know exactly what to do if you meet a bear to stay safe.  If you are charged or approached by a grizzly bear, it’s best to leave your backpack on and play dead.

As scary as that might sound, it’s a defensive maneuver to help keep you as safe as possible. Lie flat on your stomach with your hands clasped behind your neck. Spread your legs to make it harder for the bear to turn you over. Remain as motionless as possible until the bear leaves the area.

Fighting back usually increases the intensity of such attacks. However, if the attack persists, fight back vigorously with whatever you have at hand – a branch, rocks, one of your boots – to hit the bear in the face. Learn more in our article on what to do if you meet a bear.

• “It taps into something deep within all of us” – Tooth and Claw podcast host on why we can’t get enough of grizzly bear stories

A family has been caught on camera feeding bears from their rented lodge in the Great Smoky Mountains, putting the animals and the public at risk. According to USA Today, which published the video, the incident took place in downtown Gatlinburg, which often serves as a base for people visiting nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

USA Today reports that the clip was shot last week by Michelle Payne, who spotted the group, including two young children, tossing food to the animals. According to Payne, police managed to scare the bears away by sounding their car sirens. However, the animals returned later, illustrating exactly why feeding wildlife is such a problem, however well-intentioned.

When wild animals are fed by people, they often lose their natural wariness (a phenomenon called habituation), and are more likely to approach people and settlements in future. This increases the chances of a dangerous close encounter if the animal believes its food source is threatened.

Habituated bears that are deemed a threat to public safety may be relocated or even euthanized. They are also more likely to be hit by cars, or be easy targets for poachers.

Bear safety

The National Park Service (NPS) warns visitors that bears can be found throughout the Smokies, and over the last decade an average of 339 negative human-bear encounters have been reported each year (with many more going undocumented). 

"The bear's keen sense of smell leads it to insects, nuts, and berries, but the animal is also enticed by the tantalizing smells of human food and garbage such as hot dogs, apple cores, chips, and watermelon rinds left on the ground in picnic areas, campgrounds, and along trails," says the NPS.

Not only can bears that have access to human food become unpredictable and dangerous, they can also teach others where to find scraps and garbage, exacerbating the problem.

People who feed bears, store food improperly, or litter within Great Smoky Mountains National Park itself can face fines up to $5,000 and up to six months in jail.

USA Today has contacted police in Gatlinburg and the owners of the lodge regarding the incident last week, and is awaiting a reply. 

• The best binoculars: enjoy watching wildlife from a safe distance

With their magnificent antlers and bugling calls, bull elk are at their most impressive during the rutting season, so it may be tempting to get close for a better look at them, but as these tourists learned, it's much safer to give them space and watch from a safe distance.

A video shared this week via Instagram account TouronsOfYellowstone shows a large group of people who have gathered to watch a group of elk at the roadside. One has stopped their truck in the middle of the road, causing traffic to back up, while others have left their vehicles for a better view.

As you can see in the clip, which is embedded below, one particular bull elk reacts to this intrusion by charging the stopped truck, sending those on foot sprinting back to the safety of their cars.

Elk generally prefer to avoid close encounters with people, but males (bulls) are more likely to show aggression during the rut in the fall, while females (cows) are prone to charging when protecting their young calves in the spring.

Usually elk will begin with a bluff charge intended to drive the potential threat away, but they are powerful animals and can cause serious injuries if they knock a person down. Last month, people in Estes Park, Colorado (a town famous for its elk population) were warned to take care after several elk attacks were reported within a week.

In one incident, a four-year-old boy was injured after accidentally getting too close to a pair of elk calves that were hidden near a playground. A family member scared the animal away and the child was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment before being released.

Rangers later found several cow elk near the playground and drove them away using non-lethal beanbag rounds.

Elk safety

The National Park Service (NPS) warns people visiting Yellowstone to always give animals plenty of space, and never deliberately approach or distract them. Visitors should stay at least 25 yards (23 meters) from elk and bison, and 100 yards (93 meters) from predators like bears and wolves.

The NPS says the safest place to watch wildlife is from within your car, but you should always respect the animals and other road users. 

"Use pullouts to watch wildlife and let other cars pass," say officials. "Stay with your vehicle if you encounter a wildlife jam."

If you're planning to visit a National Park this fall, our guide how to enjoy elk rutting season safely is packed with advice to help you enjoy watching these impressive animals without disturbing them.

• The best binoculars: enjoy watching wildlife from a safe distance

It's rutting season for bison at Yellowstone National Park, with hormones running high and tempers fraying, but it seems some visitors just can't resist the opportunity to get up close to the huge animals, regardless of the danger.

The latest example, shared via Instagram account TouronsOfYellowstone this week, involves a woman who decided to approach a particularly large specimen for some close-up photos, then turned her back to pose for pictures with it. According to  Aimee Lopez, who snapped some shots of the incident from the safety of her car, the visitor then went even further and tried to stroke the animal.

"These were taken in Yellowstone yesterday," Lopez wrote online. "It got worse, she tried to pet it. At that point, I drove up the road and got a ranger."

According to the National Park Service (NPS), bison are the most dangerous animals at Yellowstone, responsible for more injuries than predators like bears and wolves. Just a few weeks ago, an 83-year-old woman suffered serious injuries when she was gored by a bison at the park. According to rangers, the animal was acting in self-defence when it lashed out.

"The bison, defending its space, came within a few feet of the woman and lifted her about a foot off the ground with its horns," said an NPS spokesperson after the incident.

Officials also took the opportunity to remind the public to respect animals at the park. "Visitors: it’s your responsibility to respect safety regulations and view wildlife from a safe distance," they said. "Move away from wildlife if they approach you."

Be bison aware

Approaching or distracting wildlife at US National Parks is a federal crime, and those found guilty may face hefty fines or even jail time.

The NPS warns visitors to stay at least 25 yards (23 meters) away from bison and elk at all times, and 100 yards (93 meters) from wolves and bears.

The safest way to watch wildlife is from within your car, using a zoom lens or a pair of binoculars to get a good view. If you're driving, only stop in dedicated pullouts to watch animals. Don't stop in the road and hold up traffic.

For more advice, take a look at our guides how to avoid being gored by a bison and wildlife safety: eight tips for surprise encounters.

• The best binoculars: enjoy watching wildlife from a safe distance

Bears are intelligent, dextrous, and quick to spot an easy meal – as one driver learned the hard way recently in the Great Smoky Mountains.

A video recorded by a resident's Ring doorbell captured the moment a mother bear approached an unattended vehicle with her unusually large litter of five cubs. In the clip, which you can watch below, the adult pulls herself onto her hind legs to investigate an open window. 

Having smelled something interesting, she easily climbs up the door, leans inside, and retrieves a bag of food.

Wild animals accessing human food is a serious problem, whether it's a result of carelessness or people deliberately feeding them. Animals that get used to interacting with people become habituated, meaning they lose their natural wariness around humans.

This makes them more likely to seek out people and settlements in future, and increases the risk of a dangerous close encounter. Bears are likely to lash out if their or their food source is threatened, and bears that injure a person may be relocated or even euthanized for public safety. Habituation can also make them more likely to be hit by cars, or become targets for poachers.

Bear safety

The National Park Service (NPS) warns people visiting the Great Smoky Mountains that the whole area is bear territory, and around 340 negative bear encounters are reported each year (with many more going unreported). 

"The bear's keen sense of smell leads it to insects, nuts, and berries, but the animal is also enticed by the tantalizing smells of human food and garbage such as hot dogs, apple cores, chips, and watermelon rinds left on the ground in picnic areas, campgrounds, and along trails," says the NPS.

Park Rangers can issue citations for people who litter, feed bears, or store food incorrectly. Those found guilty could face a fine up to $5,000, and up to six months in jail.

"Visitors are urged to view all wildlife at a safe distance and to never throw food or garbage on the ground or leave it unattended," the NPS says. "Garbage kills bears!"

• The best binoculars: enjoy watching bears and other wildlife from a safe distance