How do you get away from a kodiak grizzly?

Answer 1

Kodiaks and Grizzlys are 2 different subspecies of brown bear. Kodiaks are located on the Kodiak Archipelago islands in Alaska while Grizzlys are a bit more widespread. While Kodiaks are less aggressive then Grizzlys they will attack but most likely will try to avoid humans. Grizzlys are also shy of humans but will frequently find themselves in areas populated by people (usually campers hikers and hunters) while in search of food (especially after hibernation). Brown bears are most likely to attack when surprised, defending a food source or in the cases where females (sows) are protecting their young. If a Grizzly charges at you, it's best to take a submissive stance and NEVER look the animal in the eye as this communicates aggression. NEVER run from a Grizzly (downhill uphill or even through water they will follow and can easily outrun you). In some cases the bear will charge, then stop just short of reaching you and run off. In the event of an actual attack it's best to lay face down with your legs spread and your hands covering your neck as the bear will most likely try to attack your head/neck or flip you over. A Grizzly may stop attacking if it thinks you're dead - that's why it's advised to lay prone in this position and dont struggle as it will only prolong the attack and cause further injury. If there's time and you're able to find a tree to climb, be sure to climb to at least 3 times the height of the bear. The bear may try to climb up the tree after you but it's weight and short curved claws will make this difficult. The best thing to do is to be equipped with bear spray (like pepper spray) as it irritates the mucus membranes (eyes nose and mouth) and will deter the bear. It's also safer for the bear as an endangered species. Using and type of firearm will most likely anger the bear more, especially is the animal is charging and is wounded. Hikers, hunters and campers are advised to be aware of their surroundings and keep watch for signs a bear has been in the area. If an area has a smell of flesh decay it's best to avoid it as there is probably a bear nearby that will protect the food source. Watch out for scratch marks high on the trunks of trees. Look for bear tracks in loose or wet soil. Pay attention to any fallen tree trunks - if they've been scratched or nearly destroyed, there may be a bear in the area. The use of bear bells is not advisable as the sound is not high enough to travel over longer distances. It is advised to use high pitched sounds when hiking or entering a wooded area where bears are known to be as the noise and the distance that sound can travel will alert the bears in the eara giving them enough time to leave. Anything that could be considered edible (or smell enticingly) to a bear should be stored either in a bear canister or suspended in the trees by a height of at least 10 feet. It has been noted that even something as small as a tube of chapstick can (and has) attract a bear.