From: R Fisher (ghotier@texas.net)
Date: Sat Jun 01 2002 - 12:13:15 CDT
Brian Gannon wrote:
> However, I would expect a lot of bear sightings/encounters this year
> because of the extremely dry conditions. With the drought, bears have to
> start looking for alternative food sources, so be extra careful with your
> smellables.
Not being a bear "expert" or even a trained biologist, just observant, here
are some things to consider:
A late freeze in the spring of 2001 virtually wiped out the bears' normal
late season, pre-hibernation food supply (berries and acorns) and as a result
the bears went into hibernation with less fat reserves than normal. That was
one of the primary reasons for all of the late season bear activity at the
ranch.
A relatively mild winter would suggest that the bears came out of hibernation
earlier than normal and still hungry.
The drought conditions plaguing the region would suggest that the available
food supplies are severely diminished and not being replenished as fast as
normal.
What does this mean? I would expect the bears to be very active in their
pursuit of food. This doesn't mean that they will be looking for handouts or
things of that nature, but may be moving outside of their normal territories,
and much more inquisitive, and perhaps assertive/aggresive, in their
search. As a result, I would expect ursine avoidance protocols to be
stringent and would expect enforcement to be strict - for the protection of
the campers *and* the protection of the bears!
FWIW the fines for contributing to the delinquency of a bear are severe and
if the bear has to be destroyed as a result, the fine can exceed $1,000 per
occurrence.
Even though the treks haven't started yet, Phil-staff are in the backcountry
and will have a reasonable idea of the extent of the bear situation;
however, I would stay flexible and be prepared to make changes in your
procedures as the trek wears on in response to changing conditions.
Happy Trails,
Roy Fisher
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