Imagine this – you’re out in the wild, surrounded by the harmonious symphony of nature, sitting around a warm, crackling campfire under the starlit sky, savoring your well-earned dinner after a day full of adventures. Suddenly, you hear a rustle in the bushes, followed by a deep, earth-shaking growl. And then, there it is – an enormous bear, drawn by the tempting aroma of your food.
That’s a scenario none of us want to encounter. The key to avoiding this frightening situation is to understand how to store food properly when camping in bear country. Whether you’re an avid backpacker or a casual camper, knowing how to securely stash your grub is essential to both your safety and the wellbeing of these majestic creatures.
Know Your Bears: Understanding Different Species and Their Behaviors
The first step is to familiarize yourself with the types of bears you might encounter and their behaviors. North America is home to three primary bear species: black bears, brown bears (including grizzlies), and polar bears.
Black bears are the most common, found across much of North America. They are known to be curious and opportunistic feeders, often drawn to campsites by the smell of human food. Brown bears, including grizzlies, are found mostly in Alaska and parts of western Canada and the northwestern U. These bears are larger and can be more aggressive than black bears, especially if they perceive a threat to their food or their cubs. Polar bears, found in the Arctic regions, are the most carnivorous and potentially the most dangerous, but encounters with them are rare outside of their Arctic range.
The National Park Service reports that improperly stored food is a main cause for 90% of human-bear encounters. The consequences of not storing food properly can be severe, not just for people, but also for bears. A bear that becomes accustomed to human food can become a nuisance, or even a threat, leading to it being relocated or euthanized.
Essential Equipment: What You Need for Food Storage
Knowing how to store your food in bear country effectively begins with understanding the right equipment. The most common piece of gear is a bear canister. These are hard-sided, sealable containers designed to keep bears—and other animals—from getting to your food.
They are made from tough materials that bears can’t easily break, such as hard plastic or metal.
Another option is bear-resistant containers, which are similar to bear canisters but can be larger and heavier. Bear bags are less secure but can be effective when used correctly. These are made of special material designed to resist tearing and should be hung from a tree branch at least 10 feet off the ground and 4 feet away from the tree trunk.
In some campgrounds, you may also find bear lockers—large, communal steel boxes for storing food. These are great options, but they’re not portable, so they’re only useful if they’re already installed at your campsite.
The Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee (IGBC) certifies bear-resistant products, and using IGBC-certified products increases your chances of keeping bears away from your campsite. It’s a small investment that will ensure both your safety and that of the wildlife around you.
Just knowing about these tools isn’t enough, though. In the next part of this series, we’ll dive into how to use these equipment effectively and other techniques to keep your food safe from curious bears. Stay tuned for more practical tips and strategies on staying safe while enjoying the great outdoors.
Techniques for Storing Food in Bear Country
So, now that you know your bears and have your bear-resistant gear ready to go, let’s talk about actually putting these tools to use. Having the right equipment is only half the battle—the other half is knowing how to use it properly. After all, even the best bear canister won’t help if it’s left open on the picnic table.
Mastering the Bear Canister
Let’s start with the bear canister. Using it is straightforward: just pack all your food, scented toiletries (think toothpaste, deodorant, even sunscreen), and anything else a bear might find tempting inside. Make sure the lid is screwed or locked tightly shut. At night and whenever you’re away from camp, place the canister at least 100 feet (about 30 meters) from your tent, ideally wedged between rocks or in dense brush to prevent a bear from batting it down a hill.
An important tip—don’t store the canister right beside your tent.
Many first-timers make the mistake of thinking, “If it’s bear-proof, it’s fine next to me. ” Instead, keeping a safe distance ensures that if a bear does find your canister, you won’t be caught in the middle of a midnight snack raid.
Hanging a Bear Bag
If you’re using a bear bag, the “PCT method” (named after the Pacific Crest Trail) is the gold standard. Here’s a quick rundown: fill the bag, tie one end of your rope to the bag, throw the other end over a sturdy tree branch at least 15 feet high, and hoist the bag up so it hangs at least 10 feet off the ground and 4 feet away from the trunk. Secure the rope so the bag can’t be pulled down easily. Remember, some bears are clever enough to bite through ropes or simply shake the branch, so check your setup carefully.
Using Bear Lockers and Storing Food at Campgrounds
If your campsite provides bear lockers, use them. Don’t be tempted to keep “just a snack” in your tent. Bears have an excellent sense of smell (they can sniff out food from over a mile away), and it only takes one oversight to attract unwanted visitors. Store everything—food, hygiene products, empty wrappers—in the locker.
Keep a Clean Camp
No matter which storage method you use, a clean campsite is crucial. Wash dishes immediately after meals, dispose of trash in designated bear-proof bins, and pack out all food scraps. Even spilled crumbs or cooking smells can lure a curious bear, so be vigilant.
A great example comes from Yosemite National Park, where strict food storage rules are in place. Rangers report that since the introduction of mandatory bear canisters and lockers, food-related bear incidents have dropped by over 90%. It’s proof that these techniques really do work.
Bear Encounters: What If One Shows Up.
Even with perfect food storage, nature has a mind of its own, and you might still see a bear near camp. Here’s what to do:
If a Bear Approaches
First, stay calm. Stand tall, speak in a firm voice, and slowly back away—never run. If the bear is rummaging for food, do not attempt to retrieve anything.
Most bears will move on if they don’t find an easy meal. Make yourself look bigger by raising your arms or waving a jacket.
Bear Spray
Bear spray is your last line of defense. It’s highly effective in deterring aggressive bears if deployed correctly. Studies have shown that bear spray deters an aggressive bear 92% of the time, and injuries are rare when it’s used. Keep it accessible (not buried in your pack. ) and know how to use it before you hit the trail.
If a Bear Gets Your Food
If a bear manages to get your food, do not try to take it back. Report the incident to park rangers or local authorities—this helps keep both people and bears safe in the future.
By The Numbers: Bear Encounters and Food Storage Effectiveness
Let’s take a look at some eye-opening statistics that highlight just how important proper food storage is:
- In Yellowstone National Park, there were over 2,000 reported bear incidents in the 1990s, most linked to human food. After introducing rigorous food storage rules and bear-proof containers, incidents dropped to fewer than 20 per year.
- According to the National Park Service, 95% of bear-related property damage in campgrounds is directly related to improperly stored food or garbage.
- A study in Canada’s Banff National Park found that the use of bear-proof containers reduced bear visits to campsites by 81%.
These numbers aren’t just statistics—they’re a testament to how effective these methods can be, both for protecting you and for keeping bears wild and healthy.
With the right techniques and a little vigilance, you can enjoy your camping trip without worrying about unexpected furry visitors. In Part 3, we’ll explore some fascinating bear facts, answer your burning questions about food storage, and even share wisdom from the Bible and wildlife experts. Ready for more bear country know-how. Let’s dive in.
As we continue our journey through the wild and wonderful world of bear country, we’re sure you’ve gained a newfound respect for these magnificent creatures and an understanding of how to safely exist alongside them while enjoying the great outdoors. In this third installment, we’re going to immerse ourselves in some fascinating facts about bears before shedding the spotlight on a renowned wildlife expert who has spent her life understanding and advocating for these creatures.
Fun Facts Section: A Bear’s World
- Bear Senses: Did you know, a bear’s sense of smell is estimated to be seven times greater than a bloodhound’s.
They can smell food, cubs, a mate or danger from miles away.
- Night Owls. : Bears aren’t entirely nocturnal. While they are more active at dawn and dusk, they can also be spotted during the middle of the day or night.
- Eating Machines: During the summer and autumn months, bears can eat up to 90 pounds of food each day, and their diet includes a wide range of food items from berries and grass to fish and small mammals.
- Fast Runners: Despite their size, bears can run up to 40 miles per hour. That’s as fast as a racehorse.
- Hibernation: During hibernation, a bear’s heart rate drops from 40 beats per minute to 8, and they don’t eat, drink, urinate, or defecate for months. Amazingly, they don’t lose muscle mass during this time.
- Bear Cubs: Bear cubs are born in the den during winter and typically stay with their mother for about 1.
- Communication: Bears communicate using body language, vocalizations, scent marking, and even touch.
- Climbing Abilities: Black bears are excellent climbers, thanks to their strong legs and curved claws. Grizzlies can also climb trees, but their longer claws and larger size make it more difficult.
- Swimming Prowess: All bears are capable swimmers, but the polar bear is the most skilled in the water, able to swim for long distances at a stretch.
- Long Lives: In the wild, bears can live up to 25 years or more, but in captivity, they have been known to live into their 40s.
Author Spotlight: Lynsey Dyer
In this edition’s Author Spotlight, we feature Lynsey Dyer, a renowned wildlife biologist who has dedicated her career to the study and conservation of bears. With over two decades of experience, Dyer has authored numerous articles and books on bear behaviors, bear-human interactions, and effective food storage practices in bear country.
Dyer’s work emphasizes the importance of understanding bear behavior in securing our food and ensuring our safety in the wilderness. Her insights have helped shape policies and food storage practices in national parks and campsites across North America.
In her book “Living with Bears: A Practical Guide to Bear Country,” Dyer offers a comprehensive look at bear-human interactions, including practical tips for camping and food storage in bear habitats. Her approach empowers readers to coexist with bears safely and respectfully.
In her words, “The key to coexisting with bears is understanding them, respecting their space and securing our food. A fed bear is a dead bear. The onus is on us to ensure their survival and our safety. “
As we continue exploring the ways to ensure safe camping in bear country, Dyer’s expertise will be a valuable guide. So, buckle up as we get ready to dive into the next part of the series where we will answer frequently asked questions related to food storage in bear country.
FAQ Section: Food Storage in Bear Country
- Q: What are bear canisters.
A: Bear canisters are hard-sided, sealable containers designed to keep bears and other wildlife out of your food. They’re made from tough materials that bears can’t easily break, such as hard plastic or metal.
- Q: How far away should I store my food from my campsite.
A: Ideally, your food should be stored at least 100 feet away from your sleeping area.
- Q: What should I do if a bear approaches my campsite.
A: First and foremost, stay calm. Do not attempt to scare the bear away. Instead, make yourself look bigger and speak in a firm voice while slowly backing away.
- Q: Can I keep food in my tent.
A: It’s strongly advised not to keep food in your tent while camping in bear country. Bears have a keen sense of smell and can be attracted to the scent of your food.
- Q: Are bear lockers effective.
A: Yes, bear lockers are extremely effective in preventing bears from accessing your food. They’re often provided at established campgrounds in bear country.
- Q: What types of food attract bears.
A: Bears are attracted to a wide variety of food items, from fresh fruit and vegetables to canned goods and packaged meals. Even the residual smell of food can attract bears.
- Q: How can I minimize food odors at my campsite.
A: You can minimize food odors by cooking and eating well away from your sleeping area, cleaning up thoroughly after meals, and storing all food and scented items in bear-proof containers.
- Q: Is it safe to cook and eat if bears are nearby.
A: It’s best to avoid cooking and eating if bears are in the vicinity. If you must cook, ensure all food is well-contained and cleanup is thorough.
- Q: How can I protect my food while backpacking.
A: Backpackers can protect their food by using bear canisters or hanging food bags. Keep your camp clean and cook away from your sleeping area.
- Q: What should I do if a bear gets my food.
A: Never try to take your food back from a bear. Instead, move away from the area and report the incident to local authorities or park rangers.
As we journey through bear country, I’m reminded of a passage from the New King James Version (NKJV) of the Bible, Proverbs 28:15, “Like a roaring lion and a charging bear Is a wicked ruler over poor people. ” This verse reminds us of the importance of respect, whether it’s for our fellow human beings or the wildlife we encounter in nature. Bears, like lions or any other wild creature, demand our respect and understanding.
To conclude, understanding bear behavior and following recommended food storage practices can significantly reduce the risks associated with camping in bear country. While these practices may seem tedious, remember that the safety of both you and the bear population depends on it. By taking a few simple precautions, we can all enjoy the great outdoors without disturbing its native inhabitants. So next time you plan a camping trip, remember to pack not just your tent and trail mix, but also your newfound knowledge of safe and responsible food storage. Happy camping.