Bear Mountain State Park, located about 45 miles north of New York City, is a popular destination. Bears are present within the park’s boundaries, though their presence should not deter exploration. The park encompasses over 5,000 acres of mountainous terrain, providing a suitable environment for various wildlife. Understanding the local bear population and appropriate behavior can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Understanding Bear Mountain’s Bear Population
The primary bear species in the Bear Mountain area is the American black bear (Ursus americanus). These omnivorous animals eat both plants and animals. Black bears have a highly developed sense of smell and hearing, which they rely upon more than their relatively poor eyesight. They are also adept climbers, runners, and swimmers.
Black bears are generally solitary, except during mating season or when abundant food sources draw them together. They are active from spring through fall, foraging for food to build up fat reserves. During winter, they enter dens, which can include hollow trees, logs, or rock crevices, to avoid harsh weather and limited food. While black bears inhabit these woodlands, they prefer to avoid human contact. Seeing a bear is not guaranteed, as they often move away before being noticed.
Minimizing Bear Encounters
Taking proactive steps reduces the likelihood of a bear encounter. Proper management of food and scented items is important, as bears have an exceptional sense of smell and are attracted to human food. All food, garbage, and scented items, such as toiletries, should be stored in bear-resistant containers or locked inside a hard-sided vehicle. Never leave food unattended at a campsite or on trails.
When hiking, making noise helps alert bears to your presence, allowing them to move away before a close encounter. Talking, singing, or periodically calling out are effective strategies. Hiking in groups also increases noise levels, further reducing the chance of surprising a bear. If accompanied by a pet, ensure it remains on a leash to prevent it from chasing or disturbing wildlife. Adhering to these practices helps maintain bears’ natural wariness of humans.
Responding to a Bear Sighting
If you encounter a bear, the most important response is to remain calm. Identify yourself as human by talking in a calm voice. Avoid running, as this can trigger a chase response in bears, which can sprint up to 35 miles per hour. Instead, slowly back away, preferably moving sideways to keep the bear in sight and avoid tripping.
Make yourself appear as large as possible by raising your arms or holding a jacket overhead. You can also make noise by shouting or clapping your hands to scare the bear away. If the bear is stationary, allow it an escape route and wait for it to leave. If a black bear makes physical contact, fight back vigorously, targeting its face and muzzle.