Cibola National Forest

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BEARS VISIT LOCAL CAMPGROUNDS - BE BEAR AWARE

Mountainair, NM, June 22, 2007 - The Mountainair Ranger District has been experiencing a high occurrence of black bear sightings. As recent as Sunday, a bear sow and her cubs visited the New Canyon Campground in the Manzano Mountains. Officials want to remind the public that although beautiful to look at, black bears are wild creatures that can be very dangerous if provoked.

Some guidelines to avoid bear encounters in the Forest:

Avoid Confrontation

- Don't surprise bears - make noise while in the woods (talk, sing, wear bells, etc).
- Hike during daylight hours, in groups when possible. Keep children nearby.

Odors Attract Bears – Keep a Clean Camp or Picnic Area

- Store all food and odiferous items such as toothpaste in vehicles or high in a tree, away from sleeping areas. Don't leave food unattended.

Dogs Antagonize Bears

- Leash your dog at all times in the Forest

If You Encounter a Bear

- Never run from a bear
- Remain calm—give the bear a chance to leave the area
- Slowly back away; do not turn your back on the bear

If the Bear Approaches

- Make lots of noise
- Stand your ground; make yourself look bigger using a pack, jacket, etc.

Act Aggressively Toward an Attacking Bear

- Let the bear know you will fight if attacked. SHOUT! Make yourself look as big as possible. Threaten the bear with whatever is at hand. A bear that is initially curious or testing you may become predatory if you do not stand up to it. The more the bear persists, the more aggressive your response should be.

For more information on bears visit www.bebearaware.org or call the Mountainair Ranger District at 505-847-2990 or the Sandia Ranger District at 281-3304.