@@UguysRnuts I stirred it up with a stick to investigate. The smell almost made me fall over backward. Besides you usually find the bells in Grizzlies not black bears.
Same here. My wife and I plan on moving to a country that has wild bears (and wolves), so I am concerned about biking up in the mountain roads. Your videos are very helpful!
And put a portable electric bear fence around your campsite. There’s one out there weighing only 2.4 lbs and it’s really capable. Passive deterrence for a good night’s sleep.
Thanks for your videos. I've been in Glacier and had an up-close experience with a grizzly. Luckily, he never charged and I had my bear spray ready, but it was scarier than hell. We talked to a forest ranger who told us that they call bear bells, "dinner bells." They believe that cubs are curious and tend to go towards the noise and Mama follows.
Kim, we're going to Glacier in late June, any other words of wisdom for our hiking plans we should consider regarding bears? I think we'll stay on more known popular trails in the park (more people around), but not sure that will make bears less of a concern. Will have 2 large counter assaults on hips and an air horn, and will park the bells if they are attractants. We've had a grizzly issue up here in northern Idaho above Bonner's Ferry, so bears have gotten our attention as we prepare for Glacier. Thanks.
@@KevinOutdoors Right! So why would I trust bear spray now, just because is recommended currently??? My opinion is that bears will give you only ONE chance to get away from them and if the spray does not happen to work, you are dead meat with an apex predator allowed in your proximity, couple meters away from you with a failed spray attempt! Why not use guns which can both work as a noise deterrent when you just display a warning shot and a self defense weapon afterwards? Why not go with the most efficient tools against the most efficient killing machine in the Northern Hemisphere???
@@GMATTOEFLSATGRECOACH Because guns fail to hit their mark and sometimes aren't strong enough to stop a bear. The spray emits a wide cloud that is hard for the bear to move around. Obviously you love guns and good for you. Carry both then but reach for the spray first.
Grampa Joe always told us kids “NO BEAR BELLS! Makes you sound like Santa’s reindeers and them bears LOVE reindeers the most!” Oh how I miss Grampa Joe! Very similar to John Muir, he also loved to hike the Sierra Mountains with just his walking stick and a knife. ❤️ Thank you for this video series, very well done. ☮️💟✝️
Personally, I'm more concerned about cougars. They will stalk their prey and are far more difficult to spot in advance of their attack. Several recorded incidents in the Yukon did not have good outcomes. As a hunting guide in the Yukon I saw Grizzlies running the opposite direction every single time. If they spot you at a distance they will move away (at least that is my experience). At close range, and according to a fishing camp outfitter I once knew, they will rush towards you and then stop at roughly 10 yards. He claimed that in 10 years running a fishing camp on the Stikine River (seeing Grizzlies on a daily basis) that he had only shot one Grizzly at close range that did not appear to be stopping. Grizzlies do have a very slopped forehead and thick skull, so aiming for the head is not the best option. A chest shot is much more likely to bring them down if you truly need to shoot them. Personally, I would rather not have to shoot a bear, keeping in mind that the wilderness is their home, not mine. Great information though. I always laugh at hikers wearing the dinner bell to save them. However, I'm more disturbed by people who put their bear spray in their backpack. They have no idea how fast a bear can be!
I’ve been wanting to do some hiking here in Colorado, but I am extremely terrified of the wildlife. But this video definitely makes me feel a little more confident in venturing out. Thanks!
The .357 magnum I carry is pretty loud. I figure the first one goes into the dirt if it is acting aggressive but not charging. I’ve only encountered a bear at close range once. Woke up in the middle of the night and when I shined my light out of the tent it was 6 feet away. Took off as soon as my light came on, and I cleaned out my shorts.
I love your videos, you have answered all my questions in this last hour. Been living in Colorado and now I feel more confident when I plan my FIRST camping trip...finally.
Great tips. I agree about bells and whistles, they do very little. I had a black bear stumble into my bush camp in the Yukon and I discharged an air horn and it didnt even flinch. My recommendation is to always have bear spray with you.
Thanks for that. Air horns can work, but as you outline perfectly, if a nuisance bear get used to humans and human caused noises it won't be bothered at all.
I live next to the GSMNP and fish in it often. You’re lucky to get a glimpse of a wild bear outside the park but there are some human and food conditioned bears in the park that will strut into your camp like straight up thugs. If you manage to scare a bear like that off, you best get locked, cocked, and ready to rock because chances are he didn’t go far. He’s just circling looking for a better direction to come at you.
@@wasidanatsali6374 100% I packed my camp as fast as I could, jumped on my motorbike and took off, spent that night in a campground with food lockers and stopped bush camping that far up north.
Oh my lord the amount of tourists in the Rockies that I try and preach about disuse of bells... I should just save my breath and show them this video!!! Thank you Kevin for the great info!
Yeah, bells are very popular in the Rockies. I think that is because there are so many tourists, folks who have never hiked in bear country read a bit or hear something and are quick to buy a bell and feel they are doing the right thing.
@@KevinOutdoors that's exactly it!!! hahaha, I have also advised people on how to use the bear spray and then after the run down they proceed to slide it into their backpack and I go "NO NONO NO NO NO !" hahah!
even though this is 3 years old. My mother and i watched a couple of your videos. bears have been moving into her community within the past few yrs. she has bear spray and a horn!! the whistle usually scares them away but good to know the spray is the best!!! thank you for your videos....much respect to you
Just wanted to say I really appreciate your bear series! I live in Alaska, in the city but I've been spending a lot of time in the woods due to covid19 lol and there has even recently been a black bear spotted near my house on one of my normal city trails where I walk my dog daily 😳 I knew basic bear safety, and how to tell the difference between bears but i really all the detail your videos have and I am going to buy some bear spray now. Thank you!
There is a reason that this is part 3 and my bear spray video was part 2. I would consider these noise deterrents as supplementary. Have bear spray and pull it out first. If the bear isn't threatening then you can try one of these.
@@KevinOutdoors Understood. I have also heard from another video saying bear spray, to a 900-pound bear, is not that effective and that's why he always carried a big bore revolver.
@@sunchaserw1477 Well that other video was wrong. Gun lovers like to justify carrying a gun. I have nothing against guns but bear spray is much more effective and much easier to use, unfortunately no deterrent is 100% effective.
I was walking alone (I know, I know) in Kokanee Glacier park a couple of months ago, and hadn't seen this video, so I was tinkling my bear bell as I came around a blind corner. About ten metres ahead of me there was a violent commotion in the bush, and out emerged about three-quarters of an adult grizzly, probably a female, ears straining for sound. I was stunned by how big the head was, and how frosty/silvery the coat looked. I'm quite sure that the grizzly was attracted by the sound of the bell, as you mention here. It might have saved my life nonetheless, if it drew the animal out while there was still a non-threatening amount of space between us. I turned and walked back around the bend, keeping an eye on the trail, spray at the ready. The bear didn't follow or charge. I will wield an air horn next time. I'm also thinking of carrying my Reapr Survival Spear in bear country -- you can find it on Amazon for about $70 US. Possibly it could be a last recourse in a grizzly attack before you have to play dead, and it might be enough to deter a predatory black-bear attack. What do you think, Kevin and others?
Great story and thanks for sharing. The first thing I would buy is bear spray, that has proven to be the most effective at stopping bear attacks. Carrying and air horn and a secondary weapon are also good ideas.
love your videos I am always wanting to learn how to prevent dangerous bear attacks after my encounter in the middle of night at my camp in the Green Swamp in Florida!
The bear bell study I saw showed - like you said - that they didn't react to the bell. Interestingly, they then tested snapping a wooden pencil, and this had a 100% success rate of startling the bears. (not not it would be a good deterrent of course, just thought it was interesting)
@@KevinOutdoors sorry late seeing this comment. UA-cam blocks comments with non-youtube URLs so I can't link it, but if you search "bear bell efffectiveness pencil" it's the top hit, titled "No, Bear Bells Don't Work". I think it wasn't a formal study, but a series of tests by a guy named Tom Smith.
@@TrueFork maybe! I think the pencil snapping was so effective because it simulates a twig/branch snapping under the weight of an animal heavy enough to snap it. Not sure if clappers or rattles would simulate the effect enough or not.
We have quite some bears in Slovakia even close to the capital at this time, so this was much needed. Thank you!!! Just ordered a strobe flash light, fire crackers, an airhorn and spray! hope it helps :))
We have a lot of walking areas in my city where you will run into bears sometimes and there are even cougars around. It's in a large city so I always just used bear scares but I'm liking the blow horn and mace.
Living in Europe far from any grizzlies and black bears, not planning to visit the US or Canada anytime soon but still find it extremely good to know some how. Those flairs, several bear sprays and horns I'd definitely carry with me. I'd assume fire would work as well.
Thanks for the videos, would you consider making one on encounters with wolves and/or cougars? I know that in general wolves won't attack if you stand your ground and look large, and not to turn your back on cougars and cats in general, but I feel like you'd be more knowledgeable on the subject.
I agree on the bear bells i avoid them at all costs, i hike with a small air horn thats in a holster on the left shoulder strap of my pack so i dont even have to take it out it always there and ready to be pressed when needed, then i carry my spray on my right hip so if i need it i have quick access to it and a hand free to add the air horn if needed with a spray.
MORE people need to watch this!!! An air horn has chased off a bear multiple times in the night before from camp. Just a simple, small airhorn. They're cheap, light weight, and highly effective folks.
Thanks, I am planning on a few more. We had a bear in our yard the last few nights. I'll be hanging my Ursack bear bag up in the forest with bait inside and placing trail cameras on it later today. Wish me luck!
I notice air horns require to connect them to the cannister. How long do they last, because it seems like it must leak pressure, since that's the way they're sold.
I always find it so amusing how we've found ways to deal with all kinds of potentially hostile animals using methods that don't even usually require a weapon nowadays I feel bad for the times when all humanity had was sticks, stones, and eachother, even if it is commendable
I trail run and have run into many bears and carry a bear banger but have never used it. I was bluffed charged by a black bear and did not have time to react; they can change direction about as fast as they can run.
Air horn seems to be much better than bangers, since you can hold it in your hand and be ready at all times. Similar to bear spray vs gun, you can easily walk around with the bear spray in your hand ready to go at all times, while gun safety dictates that you shouldn't walk around with a loaded gun in your hand all the time.
I’m trying to find something for my mom who lives in the mountains alone. She’s been seeing a lot of large wild cats on her property. Do these whistles and tools work on them as well…other wild animals? Thx! 🙌
I do know of some instances where noise has scared cougars. I think there are news stories of a woman who played Metallica on here phone to scare one off. So noise can work but I suspect that with cats it will work until they get used to it. Bear spray will also work on cougars.
Kevin question? I follow all your guidelines to prevent bear encounters. I have a question. I love to hike and camp, but my main worry is night sleeping. I sleep better if I use fairy lights around the outside base of my tent, however, would this also attract a bear since they are curious? Thank you for all your helpful videos!
Good question. It is a real fear, it is rare but bears have pulled people from tents. 15% of the deaths caused by bears in the last 30 years occurred when people were sleeping in a tent. Now this part is speculation/experience, bears are curious but they rarely get curious about lights. Bears are much more active at night and I believe it is because of their excellent night vision. It is my assumption that they feel they have the upper hand in the dark. If you like to use lights I would say go for it.
Possibly the bear bells remind the bears of the ice cream trucks and come running toward the sound and being disappointed might react in an unfriendly manner. Who can blame them?
Another awesome informative video. I recently bought a Coghlan's Emergency Survival Horn(inner rubber film broke right away, and i replaced it with a ballon), it seems very loud, says 120 db. Also it sounds more like an elk or something, not sure if that is any better than just a whistle.
Would it be better to attract a bear than a bull? Idk. Those guys are pretty freaking scary. Especially in the mating season. Don't let em get confused! Lol🐾🤔😉
Very informative video, Kevin.i learned more from this. Why is that in all beautiful places you find bear guarding it. I wish there was some better way to keep yourself safe from bears and others wildlife.
Can you cite any information on the use of air horns? I searched far and wide myself a few years ago and only found conflicting information. From what I found, they basically trigger the flight or fight response in the bear.
Yep, I don't know of too many studies or reports but I have had experience using these on bears and also know many others who have. Airhorns usually work, sometimes they don't especially if the bear has become habituated to the noise.
marine signal horn is insanely loud. Keep in mind, if it is loud to a 40 year old man, imagine how loud it is to a seven year old bear with young ears and incredibly sensitive hearing
@@KevinOutdoors is this horn in your video also the marine signal one? And do you think that using it every 5 minutes just don't keeps a good perimeter around med even if I don't see any to prevent close encounters?
@@LCRLive687 Yes this is a marine signal horn. It won't last long if you use it every 5 min when you are in bear country. I would just use it when a bear is pestering you.
Besides an air horn I also carry a starter pistol. Never had to use it so I don't know if it will scare a bear off but I feel better having it. Nice video.
Thanks for a n interesting and informative video. I've got one more question about whistles though. Are bears sensetive to dog ultrasound whistles or something of that sort?
Good question, there is good evidence that bears (like dogs) can hear higher frequencies than humans. Some research has been done to see if these frequencies can repel bears and those studies showed some success. But in the studies the frequency, volume and direction were all important factors so there is no simple system that you could carry with you that would be effective.
I'm going to be Camping on Vancouver Island, Squamish and Whistler later on this year and am understandably concerned about bears, I was thinking in particular about being attacked during the night whilst asleep in my tent, would a cattle prod be at all effective? I believe that the output voltage can be increased on some models but have seen nothing about anyone using them to fend off bears. Whatever the answer, I AM going, this is the trip of a lifetime for me, British Columbia is where I should have been born-it's not somewhere I intend to die before I absolutely have to though! Great videos, I won't die from ignorance after watching all of these! Thank you (and a Happy New Year from the UK)!
First off, you are going to see some great places and I think you have the right attitude, be prepared but not afraid. The risks of being attacked by a bear are only little better than winning the lottery and the chances are very high that you won't see a bear in your campground at all. (hopefully you do see one while driving around). Unfortunately bear attacks do happen and sometimes when people are sleeping in their tent. If you are in a busy campground then an attack is much less likely since there are many other people around. I would drop the cattle prod idea. It could work but if you are asleep then it is no more useful than anything else. I do recommend bringing bear spray and having it close at hand. When I sleep in a tent in the backcountry I keep one can in the vestibule just outside the tent. Have a great trip!
@@KevinOutdoors I did have a great trip and wish I were still there, camped everywhere from Campbell River, Cortes Island and Tofino, did a hell of a lot of hiking (too much, this time!) and a little sea-kayaking which was disappointing because the sea was as flat as a pancake, didn't bother with the cattle prod plan-you were right-daft idea! I had my Spray, the air horn and a camping knife which I fixed onto a broken branch to use as a short Spear-may seem a bit extreme but I am 65 years old and in no condition any longer to wrestle with Bears! The only "wildlife" I directly encountered was a family of Racoons outside my Vancouver Hostel the night before I flew back to the UK! Wonderful, these are in my top 3 favorite animals list. Going back in May and will also go inland to do some canoeing and camping-I am semi-retired and can take the whole summer for it-which I intend to do!
Thank you for the tips! A friend of mine whose husband is an experienced hunter told me that if you wear a strong fragrance the bears will not approach you because they hate the smell. What do you think?
Bears have a great nose and are curious and have been documented to go after things that have previously been sprayed with bear spray. There is also some evidence that they avoid the cleaner 'Pine Sol'. So this might be true but it probably would depend on what the fragrance was. I wouldn't trust it to save my life.
Do you think a cowbell would do any good? It's larger and louder than bear bells. I recently purchased one for this purpose. Some Amazon reviewers indicated they scare bears. I was hoping not to have to get an airhorn. The bangers seem good.
I don't have any evidence of that working but a cow bell would likely work. You aren't scaring them with it but it would hopefully alert them to your presence and they move off before you encounter them. The research indicates that to a bear the smaller bells are indistinguishable from bird noises, a cowbell should be different. More Cowbell!
You can buy bigger ones, but like Kevin sayz, the noise is really painful up close. A bear won't mistake it for a wounded bird. No point blowing the thing until the bear is close enough to dislike the sound. My guess.
Also, if that doesn't work, just grow a really manly beard as I have, and the bear will see your manliness and leave without incident.
LOL, I am experimenting with that. No bears want to talk to me so it must be working!
2a+,!
@@KevinOutdoors I know a few bears who would love chatting you up.
@@UguysRnuts loool! I love this so much
I’m unable to grow one, will a fake one work? 🤣🧔🏻♀️
I always liked that old story of asking grampa how to identify bear poo - it's the one with the bells in it.
I recently found some after an overnight stealth c camp, no bells but it was fresh and stank.
@@theprophetez1357 How do you know there were no bells?
@@UguysRnuts I stirred it up with a stick to investigate. The smell almost made me fall over backward. Besides you usually find the bells in Grizzlies not black bears.
😂😂Perfect
🤣!!!
Kevin, I watched all three of your parts on bears - you did a very nice/informative job - a real public service indeed. We thank you.
Much appreciated!
I think so too. I enjoyed watching it, and there aren't even any bears in my country.
Same here. My wife and I plan on moving to a country that has wild bears (and wolves), so I am concerned about biking up in the mountain roads. Your videos are very helpful!
My top noise deterrent for bears is the muzzle blast from a .44 mag loaded with bonded bullets (no hollow points) or a 12 gauge loaded with slugs.
To each their own.
A ................REALIST !
And put a portable electric bear fence around your campsite. There’s one out there weighing only 2.4 lbs and it’s really capable. Passive deterrence for a good night’s sleep.
Thanks for your videos. I've been in Glacier and had an up-close experience with a grizzly. Luckily, he never charged and I had my bear spray ready, but it was scarier than hell. We talked to a forest ranger who told us that they call bear bells, "dinner bells." They believe that cubs are curious and tend to go towards the noise and Mama follows.
Thanks Kim. Yes bear bells while once recommended are no longer considered safe.
Kim, we're going to Glacier in late June, any other words of wisdom for our hiking plans we should consider regarding bears? I think we'll stay on more known popular trails in the park (more people around), but not sure that will make bears less of a concern. Will have 2 large counter assaults on hips and an air horn, and will park the bells if they are attractants. We've had a grizzly issue up here in northern Idaho above Bonner's Ferry, so bears have gotten our attention as we prepare for Glacier. Thanks.
@@KevinOutdoors Right! So why would I trust bear spray now, just because is recommended currently??? My opinion is that bears will give you only ONE chance to get away from them and if the spray does not happen to work, you are dead meat with an apex predator allowed in your proximity, couple meters away from you with a failed spray attempt! Why not use guns which can both work as a noise deterrent when you just display a warning shot and a self defense weapon afterwards? Why not go with the most efficient tools against the most efficient killing machine in the Northern Hemisphere???
@@GMATTOEFLSATGRECOACH Because guns fail to hit their mark and sometimes aren't strong enough to stop a bear. The spray emits a wide cloud that is hard for the bear to move around. Obviously you love guns and good for you. Carry both then but reach for the spray first.
Grampa Joe always told us kids “NO BEAR BELLS! Makes you sound like Santa’s reindeers and them bears LOVE reindeers the most!” Oh how I miss Grampa Joe! Very similar to John Muir, he also loved to hike the Sierra Mountains with just his walking stick and a knife. ❤️
Thank you for this video series, very well done. ☮️💟✝️
Thanks Little Skittle we need more 'Grampa Joes'!
It's valuable to hear from an actual subject matter expert.
Thanks Thomas, I just do my best.
Thank you for the video. I have hunted Bears for years, but we can always learn something new.
Thanks J D.
Guess, you could say that this episode covered all of the bells and whistles of bear defense
*I'll see myself out*
LOL, thanks for that!
Personally, I'm more concerned about cougars. They will stalk their prey and are far more difficult to spot in advance of their attack. Several recorded incidents in the Yukon did not have good outcomes.
As a hunting guide in the Yukon I saw Grizzlies running the opposite direction every single time. If they spot you at a distance they will move away (at least that is my experience). At close range, and according to a fishing camp outfitter I once knew, they will rush towards you and then stop at roughly 10 yards. He claimed that in 10 years running a fishing camp on the Stikine River (seeing Grizzlies on a daily basis) that he had only shot one Grizzly at close range that did not appear to be stopping.
Grizzlies do have a very slopped forehead and thick skull, so aiming for the head is not the best option. A chest shot is much more likely to bring them down if you truly need to shoot them. Personally, I would rather not have to shoot a bear, keeping in mind that the wilderness is their home, not mine.
Great information though. I always laugh at hikers wearing the dinner bell to save them. However, I'm more disturbed by people who put their bear spray in their backpack. They have no idea how fast a bear can be!
@@brucewilliamsstudio4932 Personally, I'd rather not get mauled. If I had a gun, it's going down.
I’ve been wanting to do some hiking here in Colorado, but I am extremely terrified of the wildlife. But this video definitely makes me feel a little more confident in venturing out. Thanks!
Go for it!
Carry a gun. There's mountain lions there too
You need a large caliber pistol with five or more loaded extra magazines to truly be safe. The The Micro Draco would be very effect against bears
...you have lots of BALLS!!...
@@vanillaexplosion99 It's for bears, not the cartel.
Another well-done video Kevin, it raises much awareness and can even save lives. Thanks.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Lead spray, it’s also an excellent bear banger depending on your aim.
The .357 magnum I carry is pretty loud. I figure the first one goes into the dirt if it is acting aggressive but not charging. I’ve only encountered a bear at close range once. Woke up in the middle of the night and when I shined my light out of the tent it was 6 feet away. Took off as soon as my light came on, and I cleaned out my shorts.
Flash light and strobe light can be very effective !
Buy a bigger caliber.
That beard is really making the most out of the quarantine!
Thanks, perfect time to grow a beard.
I love your videos, you have answered all my questions in this last hour. Been living in Colorado and now I feel more confident when I plan my FIRST camping trip...finally.
Have a great time!
Great series! Thank you for the practical, not sugar coated information!
Thanks! Glad it was helpful!
As it’s so far out of my experience I found that really interesting.
Thanks Andy!
Since I was a kid I've given a good old rick flair WOOO every few minutes when in the woods. Didn't know it would help with bears though, thanks.
LOL, that is perfect! Loved Rick Flair!
Then you have to suplex them.
Just because he was awesome and deserves his name spelled correctly - it's 'Ric Flair'. I don't know why, but that's the man's name. :D
@@UguysRnuts just don't try to apply the figure four leglock... can't vouch for its effectiveness against bears
You should be running the National Parks man. You're good!
Ha, thanks that would be fun!
Great tips. I agree about bells and whistles, they do very little. I had a black bear stumble into my bush camp in the Yukon and I discharged an air horn and it didnt even flinch. My recommendation is to always have bear spray with you.
Thanks for that. Air horns can work, but as you outline perfectly, if a nuisance bear get used to humans and human caused noises it won't be bothered at all.
I live next to the GSMNP and fish in it often. You’re lucky to get a glimpse of a wild bear outside the park but there are some human and food conditioned bears in the park that will strut into your camp like straight up thugs. If you manage to scare a bear like that off, you best get locked, cocked, and ready to rock because chances are he didn’t go far. He’s just circling looking for a better direction to come at you.
@@wasidanatsali6374 100% I packed my camp as fast as I could, jumped on my motorbike and took off, spent that night in a campground with food lockers and stopped bush camping that far up north.
Bear spray doesn't always work esp around an angry grizzly.
@@Gallifrey218 Yes, if the weather's $hitty , your outta luck.
Oh my lord the amount of tourists in the Rockies that I try and preach about disuse of bells... I should just save my breath and show them this video!!! Thank you Kevin for the great info!
Yeah, bells are very popular in the Rockies. I think that is because there are so many tourists, folks who have never hiked in bear country read a bit or hear something and are quick to buy a bell and feel they are doing the right thing.
@@KevinOutdoors that's exactly it!!! hahaha, I have also advised people on how to use the bear spray and then after the run down they proceed to slide it into their backpack and I go "NO NONO NO NO NO !" hahah!
Hiker: /rings bell
Bear: Hmmmm, let me go and investigate that interesting sound.....
Kevin, as a person who lives in a country with no bears. This video was still very interesting and I loved it. Really well managed video!
Thanks I really appreciate that!
Me too. There's not been a bear in my country since the 5th Century AD, but you can never be too prepared!
even though this is 3 years old. My mother and i watched a couple of your videos. bears have been moving into her community within the past few yrs. she has bear spray and a horn!! the whistle usually scares them away but good to know the spray is the best!!! thank you for your videos....much respect to you
Thank you you helped me a lot. I’m leaving for Mount Rainier on next Monday and Yellowstone next month. I appreciate it.
Your Canadiens de Montréal hat just kills it! Thank you for your wonderful videos! Merci de Montréal.
I grew up near Montreal so I come by that hat honestly. Go Habs Go!
@@KevinOutdoors So that's an extra reason for me to follow you on UA-cam.
Thank you for this great information, including the first two videos.
Glad it was helpful! You're welcome!
Thanks for posting Kevin. That is some good useful information there.
Glad it was helpful!
More great information 👍 Thanks for sharing!!
You are welcome!
I love these videos. You’re quite the educator 👍
I appreciate that!
Thank you.
Welcome Michael!
Thank you, very useful demonstrations👍
Thanks again!
Very well explained and thorough. Great work thank you
You're very welcome!
Just wanted to say I really appreciate your bear series! I live in Alaska, in the city but I've been spending a lot of time in the woods due to covid19 lol and there has even recently been a black bear spotted near my house on one of my normal city trails where I walk my dog daily 😳 I knew basic bear safety, and how to tell the difference between bears but i really all the detail your videos have and I am going to buy some bear spray now. Thank you!
Thanks, glad to hear it. Hopefully you never need the spray but if you do it will be worth every penny.
Thank you so much for showing me these options as I always thought bear spray is the only thing to use.
There is a reason that this is part 3 and my bear spray video was part 2. I would consider these noise deterrents as supplementary. Have bear spray and pull it out first. If the bear isn't threatening then you can try one of these.
@@KevinOutdoors Understood. I have also heard from another video saying bear spray, to a 900-pound bear, is not that effective and that's why he always carried a big bore revolver.
@@sunchaserw1477 Well that other video was wrong. Gun lovers like to justify carrying a gun. I have nothing against guns but bear spray is much more effective and much easier to use, unfortunately no deterrent is 100% effective.
@@KevinOutdoors A gun don't care what way the wind's blowin'.
I was walking alone (I know, I know) in Kokanee Glacier park a couple of months ago, and hadn't seen this video, so I was tinkling my bear bell as I came around a blind corner. About ten metres ahead of me there was a violent commotion in the bush, and out emerged about three-quarters of an adult grizzly, probably a female, ears straining for sound. I was stunned by how big the head was, and how frosty/silvery the coat looked. I'm quite sure that the grizzly was attracted by the sound of the bell, as you mention here. It might have saved my life nonetheless, if it drew the animal out while there was still a non-threatening amount of space between us. I turned and walked back around the bend, keeping an eye on the trail, spray at the ready. The bear didn't follow or charge. I will wield an air horn next time. I'm also thinking of carrying my Reapr Survival Spear in bear country -- you can find it on Amazon for about $70 US. Possibly it could be a last recourse in a grizzly attack before you have to play dead, and it might be enough to deter a predatory black-bear attack. What do you think, Kevin and others?
Great story and thanks for sharing. The first thing I would buy is bear spray, that has proven to be the most effective at stopping bear attacks. Carrying and air horn and a secondary weapon are also good ideas.
Great series.
Thanks Kelly!
love your videos I am always wanting to learn how to prevent dangerous bear attacks after my encounter in the middle of night at my camp in the Green Swamp in Florida!
Wowza! Bears at night in your campsite are always concerning.
When Chuck Norris encounters a bear, the bear takes out Chuck Norris spray.
OK, I have gotten a lot of bear jokes here. You are now ranked #1
Dunno if it'll work against Chuck Norris though
Would it?
Very useful video. Thank you.
Glad it was helpful!
The bear bell study I saw showed - like you said - that they didn't react to the bell. Interestingly, they then tested snapping a wooden pencil, and this had a 100% success rate of startling the bears. (not not it would be a good deterrent of course, just thought it was interesting)
Interesting. Is it possible to share the source? I'd love to see/read about that.
if snapping a pencil works, I wonder if wooden clappers or rattles would work better than bells
@@KevinOutdoors sorry late seeing this comment. UA-cam blocks comments with non-youtube URLs so I can't link it, but if you search "bear bell efffectiveness pencil" it's the top hit, titled "No, Bear Bells Don't Work". I think it wasn't a formal study, but a series of tests by a guy named Tom Smith.
@@TrueFork maybe! I think the pencil snapping was so effective because it simulates a twig/branch snapping under the weight of an animal heavy enough to snap it. Not sure if clappers or rattles would simulate the effect enough or not.
Great video and info.
Thanks for watching!
Great concise video. Not suitable for biking, but for hikers I hear bagpipes work pretty well too. There's a few teach yourself the bagpipes videos.
I am also sure bagpipes would work :)
Great presentation.
Thank you kindly!
Thanks, great info as always!!
Thanks Carey, you are welcome!
Fantastic series...great information.
Glad you enjoyed it!
We have quite some bears in Slovakia even close to the capital at this time, so this was much needed. Thank you!!! Just ordered a strobe flash light, fire crackers, an airhorn and spray! hope it helps :))
Good luck.
Great video and very informative 👍
Glad you liked it.
Awesome video! Thank you for demonstrating!! Super helpful
You are so welcome!
Thanks, great tips. Be well!
Thanks, you too!
Great information and well delivered man. Super sweet T-Shirt and Go Habs Go.
Great tips - thanks for the video
Glad it was helpful!
We have a lot of walking areas in my city where you will run into bears sometimes and there are even cougars around. It's in a large city so I always just used bear scares but I'm liking the blow horn and mace.
Thank you!
Welcome!
Living in Europe far from any grizzlies and black bears, not planning to visit the US or Canada anytime soon but still find it extremely good to know some how. Those flairs, several bear sprays and horns I'd definitely carry with me. I'd assume fire would work as well.
Yes they generally don't like fire.
Holy water and crosses.
I had heard that whistles were not recommended since they can sound like a wounded animal, and attract the bear.
That could be. They use high pitched whistles to attract wolves and coyotes. I am not sure it would work on a bear or not.
Kevin Outdoors lol I wouldn’t want to attract those either! And I wonder what a cougar would think of them..
Ty
Thanks for the videos, would you consider making one on encounters with wolves and/or cougars? I know that in general wolves won't attack if you stand your ground and look large, and not to turn your back on cougars and cats in general, but I feel like you'd be more knowledgeable on the subject.
Another great vid Kevin - thx for sharing
Thank you Winter8R1!
Great videos. They probably will save some lives, if they haven't already. Thanks Kevin.
Thanks, I hope the info helps someone some day.
I agree on the bear bells i avoid them at all costs, i hike with a small air horn thats in a holster on the left shoulder strap of my pack so i dont even have to take it out it always there and ready to be pressed when needed, then i carry my spray on my right hip so if i need it i have quick access to it and a hand free to add the air horn if needed with a spray.
MORE people need to watch this!!! An air horn has chased off a bear multiple times in the night before from camp. Just a simple, small airhorn. They're cheap, light weight, and highly effective folks.
Thanks for the comment.
Thanks dude! ✌️
No problem 👍
I really like your bear defence videos, keep up the good work
Thanks, I am planning on a few more. We had a bear in our yard the last few nights. I'll be hanging my Ursack bear bag up in the forest with bait inside and placing trail cameras on it later today. Wish me luck!
I know that you are a proffesional, but still be careful mate
I notice air horns require to connect them to the cannister. How long do they last, because it seems like it must leak pressure, since that's the way they're sold.
Well, this video is over a year old and the horn still works perfectly. I don't think they leak much.
@@KevinOutdoors Thanks!
thank you
Welcome!
I always find it so amusing how we've found ways to deal with all kinds of potentially hostile animals using methods that don't even usually require a weapon nowadays
I feel bad for the times when all humanity had was sticks, stones, and eachother, even if it is commendable
You are awesome! Thanku so much for this information!!!
Glad it was helpful!
I trail run and have run into many bears and carry a bear banger but have never used it. I was bluffed charged by a black bear and did not have time to react; they can change direction about as fast as they can run.
Thanks for sharing that Paul. Yes bears can be very fast!
I love this channel even though I live in London, UK. 🤷♂️
Thanks, much appreciated!
Same here, you can never learn enough! Very well put together videos, thanks Kevin!
Oh, please!! !!
Oh, thank you.
Air horn seems to be much better than bangers, since you can hold it in your hand and be ready at all times. Similar to bear spray vs gun, you can easily walk around with the bear spray in your hand ready to go at all times, while gun safety dictates that you shouldn't walk around with a loaded gun in your hand all the time.
Never heard of safety's on guns ?
I’m trying to find something for my mom who lives in the mountains alone. She’s been seeing a lot of large wild cats on her property. Do these whistles and tools work on them as well…other wild animals? Thx! 🙌
I do know of some instances where noise has scared cougars. I think there are news stories of a woman who played Metallica on here phone to scare one off. So noise can work but I suspect that with cats it will work until they get used to it. Bear spray will also work on cougars.
Kevin question? I follow all your guidelines to prevent bear encounters. I have a question. I love to hike and camp, but my main worry is night sleeping. I sleep better if I use fairy lights around the outside base of my tent, however, would this also attract a bear since they are curious? Thank you for all your helpful videos!
Good question. It is a real fear, it is rare but bears have pulled people from tents. 15% of the deaths caused by bears in the last 30 years occurred when people were sleeping in a tent. Now this part is speculation/experience, bears are curious but they rarely get curious about lights. Bears are much more active at night and I believe it is because of their excellent night vision. It is my assumption that they feel they have the upper hand in the dark. If you like to use lights I would say go for it.
great video
Glad you enjoyed it!
Stayed for the information, subbed for the beard!!
Awesome! Thank you! LOL.
Possibly the bear bells remind the bears of the ice cream trucks and come running toward the sound and being disappointed might react in an unfriendly manner. Who can blame them?
Yes, I imagine any bear that grew up in a neighbourhood with frequent ice cream trucks would make that connection.
I just read this 😂😂😂
Awesome. Ty.
You're welcome!
Trumpet also works
I bet they would. I can find no records of bears attacking marching bands.
@@KevinOutdoors Did you hear what happened when Herb Alpert visited Yellowstone? Almost lost his brass.
Another awesome informative video. I recently bought a Coghlan's Emergency Survival Horn(inner rubber film broke right away, and i replaced it with a ballon), it seems very loud, says 120 db. Also it sounds more like an elk or something, not sure if that is any better than just a whistle.
Hi Brian, that sounds good, the louder the better.
Would it be better to attract a bear than a bull? Idk. Those guys are pretty freaking scary. Especially in the mating season. Don't let em get confused! Lol🐾🤔😉
Very informative video, Kevin.i learned more from this.
Why is that in all beautiful places you find bear guarding it.
I wish there was some better way to keep yourself safe from bears and others wildlife.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Good info. Thanks
Glad it was helpful!
This is very useful. Thank you.
Can you cite any information on the use of air horns? I searched far and wide myself a few years ago and only found conflicting information. From what I found, they basically trigger the flight or fight response in the bear.
Yep, I don't know of too many studies or reports but I have had experience using these on bears and also know many others who have. Airhorns usually work, sometimes they don't especially if the bear has become habituated to the noise.
marine signal horn is insanely loud. Keep in mind, if it is loud to a 40 year old man, imagine how loud it is to a seven year old bear with young ears and incredibly sensitive hearing
Absolutely.
@@KevinOutdoors is this horn in your video also the marine signal one?
And do you think that using it every 5 minutes just don't keeps a good perimeter around med even if I don't see any to prevent close encounters?
@@LCRLive687 Yes this is a marine signal horn. It won't last long if you use it every 5 min when you are in bear country. I would just use it when a bear is pestering you.
I use a true flare pen launcher there awesome and loud for sure and air horns , thank 's
Nice 👍Yes they are loud and generally very effective.
Great Video!!!!
Glad you enjoyed it.
what about forest fire issues with the explosive device?
Yeah, in the right conditions the bear bangers could easily start a fire.
Great video. Lovin the beard bub.
Hey, thanks!
That bear banger is really cool! great info Kevin🐻🐻🐻
Thanks Mike!
Do noise tactics also work against mountain lions?
I have heard that it does. You can google a story about a woman saving herself from a cougar by blasting Metallica from her cell phone. :)
Besides an air horn I also carry a starter pistol. Never had to use it so I don't know if it will scare a bear off but I feel better having it. Nice video.
A starter pistol is quite loud, it should work as well or better than an air horn.
Can you hang something on your back pack like pots/pans something making noise as your are walking?
I suppose that would work.
Thanks for a n interesting and informative video. I've got one more question about whistles though.
Are bears sensetive to dog ultrasound whistles or something of that sort?
Good question, there is good evidence that bears (like dogs) can hear higher frequencies than humans. Some research has been done to see if these frequencies can repel bears and those studies showed some success. But in the studies the frequency, volume and direction were all important factors so there is no simple system that you could carry with you that would be effective.
awesome video!👍
Thank you! 👍
I'm going to be Camping on Vancouver Island, Squamish and Whistler later on this year and am understandably concerned about bears, I was thinking in particular about being attacked during the night whilst asleep in my tent, would a cattle prod be at all effective? I believe that the output voltage can be increased on some models but have seen nothing about anyone using them to fend off bears.
Whatever the answer, I AM going, this is the trip of a lifetime for me, British Columbia is where I should have been born-it's not somewhere I intend to die before I absolutely have to though!
Great videos, I won't die from ignorance after watching all of these!
Thank you (and a Happy New Year from the UK)!
First off, you are going to see some great places and I think you have the right attitude, be prepared but not afraid. The risks of being attacked by a bear are only little better than winning the lottery and the chances are very high that you won't see a bear in your campground at all. (hopefully you do see one while driving around). Unfortunately bear attacks do happen and sometimes when people are sleeping in their tent. If you are in a busy campground then an attack is much less likely since there are many other people around. I would drop the cattle prod idea. It could work but if you are asleep then it is no more useful than anything else. I do recommend bringing bear spray and having it close at hand. When I sleep in a tent in the backcountry I keep one can in the vestibule just outside the tent. Have a great trip!
@@KevinOutdoors I did have a great trip and wish I were still there, camped everywhere from Campbell River, Cortes Island and Tofino, did a hell of a lot of hiking (too much, this time!) and a little sea-kayaking which was disappointing because the sea was as flat as a pancake, didn't bother with the cattle prod plan-you were right-daft idea! I had my Spray, the air horn and a camping knife which I fixed onto a broken branch to use as a short Spear-may seem a bit extreme but I am 65 years old and in no condition any longer to wrestle with Bears!
The only "wildlife" I directly encountered was a family of Racoons outside my Vancouver Hostel the night before I flew back to the UK! Wonderful, these are in my top 3 favorite animals list.
Going back in May and will also go inland to do some canoeing and camping-I am semi-retired and can take the whole summer for it-which I intend to do!
Thank you for the tips! A friend of mine whose husband is an experienced hunter told me that if you wear a strong fragrance the bears will not approach you because they hate the smell. What do you think?
Bears have a great nose and are curious and have been documented to go after things that have previously been sprayed with bear spray. There is also some evidence that they avoid the cleaner 'Pine Sol'. So this might be true but it probably would depend on what the fragrance was. I wouldn't trust it to save my life.
Do you think a cowbell would do any good? It's larger and louder than bear bells. I recently purchased one for this purpose. Some Amazon reviewers indicated they scare bears. I was hoping not to have to get an airhorn. The bangers seem good.
I don't have any evidence of that working but a cow bell would likely work. You aren't scaring them with it but it would hopefully alert them to your presence and they move off before you encounter them. The research indicates that to a bear the smaller bells are indistinguishable from bird noises, a cowbell should be different. More Cowbell!
I think that all the devises that were high pitched sounded like bird song. Is there low pitched loud air horns?
Well I think that air horn was fairly low pitched.
You can buy bigger ones, but like Kevin sayz, the noise is really painful up close. A bear won't mistake it for a wounded bird. No point blowing the thing until the bear is close enough to dislike the sound. My guess.
Any recommendations on how to ward off wild boars?
Bear spray should work on boars or any mammal. Quite honestly I think I would fear boars more than bears.