Living in the western United States means there’s always the chance of coming in contact with wildlife. Animals like cougars, bears, elk, and coyotes exist around the mountain west. Whether you’re camping, fishing, or even just walking trails, it’s important to know how to prepare for potential encounters with any wild animal that you may encounter.
The first step to being prepared is to educate yourself on the animals that are likely to be in the area. Research the size, the habitat, and the behavior of the different species that live in your area. Knowing what kinds of animals you may encounter allow you to make more informed decisions about your outdoor activities.
The second step to being prepared is to make sure you are carrying bear spray and a first-aid kit while outdoors. Bear spray is a much better alternative to firearms in deterring larger wildlife encounters, and carrying a first-aid kit is paramount for any outdoor trip, regardless of the likelihood of a wildlife encounter. Being prepared for the worst-case scenario will help you out in any situation.
Following Animal Safety Precautions
There are other important safety precautions to keep in mind when in bear, cougar, or coyote country. Make sure you are aware of your surroundings, and that you don’t surprise an animal by walking up on them. If you do encounter a wild=life animal, don’t run away as this may trigger the animal’s predatory instincts. Instead, slowly back away to a safe distance. Avoid direct eye contact with the animal, and speak calmly and firmly. If the animal is close enough, spray it with bear spray.
Bear spray is an important tool to have while outdoors in the mountain west, but it can come with certain risks as well. Make sure to read the product instructions before using, and practice beforehand.Proper understanding of bear spray is essential in order to use it efficiently and accurately when the need arises.
Making Adjustments to Your Campsite
Making adjustments to your campsite can also help minimize the chance of a wildlife encounter. Many animals are attracted to food and smells associated with human food. Keep your campsite clean and organized and store food items away in an airtight container. It’s important to acknowledge that you are entering the animals’ home, and by following a few precautionary steps you are likely to have a much safer experience.
Animals can also be attracted to noise, so it’s important to take steps to minimize noise. Avoid carrying loud music players or other audio devices which may attract wild animals, and make sure to remain relatively quiet while outdoors. Following these steps will help you avoid any wildlife encounters that could endanger your own safety.
The most important thing to remember is to stay calm and alert while in wild animal territory. By being aware of your surroundings and following the safety tips above, you can make sure that your outdoor experience goes as smoothly as possible.
A List of Wildlife Safety Tips
- Educate yourself on the types of wildlife in your area
- Carry bear spray and a first-aid kit with you while outdoors
- Be aware of your surroundings and don’t surprise a wild animal
- Don’t run away and instead back away slowly if you encounter an animal
- Avoid direct eye contact with a wild animal
- Keep noise at a minimum
- Store all food items in airtight containers away from the campsite
Conclusion
Wildlife safety is important when you’re out in the mountain west. By following the steps outlined above, you can make sure that your outdoor experience is as safe and enjoyable as possible. Know the types of wildlife in your area, prepare your campsite accordingly, stay alert when outdoors, and keep safety items close by if needed. With a few minor adjustments, you can ensure that your experience outdoors is as safe as possible.