The National Park Service is warning people against confronting bears in the wild, with a little bit of humor.
On Twitter, they wrote, “If you come across a bear, never push a slower friend down, even if you feel the friendship has run its course.” It’s their way of telling people to keep their distance.
The Parks Service notes that bears will become more active in the spring as snow thaws.
The National Parks Service also provides some tips for hiking in bear country like traveling in a group, making noise while hiking, never approaching cubs, and never surprising a bear, among other things.
They also explain how to properly use bear spray and do not recommend using firearms to stop an attack.
Washington state has grizzly bears and black bears, according to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.
The Washington Trails Association explains that grizzlies pose little danger to hikers and that if someone spots a bear, it’s most likely a black bear.
They also give recommendations for hiking near bears and how to handle bear encounters.
If you come across a bear, never push a slower friend down…even if you feel the friendship has run its course.
— National Park Service (@NatlParkService) February 28, 2023
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