Be Bear Aware

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Often unseen, Black bears are a native and common species across the Modoc National Forest and beyond.
When drought conditions make water sources more scarse, human-wildlife conflicts can increase. These brochures, prepared by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, will help you prevent harmful encounters.

BLACK BEAR SAFETY TIPS

• Make noise while hiking to avoid a surprise encounter with a bear.
• Keep a clean campsite.
• Use air-tight containers to store food and anything scented.
• Never approach a bear or pick up a bear cub.
• If you encounter a bear, do not run; instead, face the animal, make noise and try to appear as large as possible.
• If attacked, fight back. Do not "play dead" with a Black bear.
• If a bear attacks a person, immediately call 911.
• If in doubt about what to do, ask your local CDFW wildlife officer or biologist, park ranger, law enforcement officer, or Forest Service office.

Visit the Pacific Southwest Region's Frequently Asked Questions page on Black bears.