What to do if I encounter bears while elk hunting?

Recognizing and Preventing Bear Encounters

When elk hunting in New Mexico, it’s essential to be aware of your surroundings and recognize signs of bears, such as tracks, scat, or digging near your campsite. Keep a clean campsite, store food and trash properly, and avoid leaving out attractants like cooking oil or pet food. This will minimize the likelihood of encountering a bear while hunting.

What to Do During a Bear Encounter

If you encounter a bear, remain calm and try to assess the situation. If the bear is a grizzly, give it plenty of space, at least 100 yards, and try to back away slowly without turning your back on the bear. If the bear is a black bear, try to intimidate it by making loud noises, such as yelling or banging pots and pans. Never run, as this can trigger a bear’s chase instinct. In New Mexico, black bears are more common, and grizzly bears are rare, but it’s essential to be prepared for either scenario.

Self-Defense and Safety Precautions

In the unlikely event that a bear charges, use bear spray as a last resort. Make sure the wind is not blowing towards you and aim for the bear’s face and eyes. Keep the canister within easy reach and be prepared to use it quickly. Always carry bear spray with you while hunting in bear country, and consider taking a bear safety course to learn more about bear behavior and prevention.