BIG-TIME BRUIN BLUNDERS
New to chasing spring or fall black bears? Here are some all-too-common mistakes
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#2 MAKE A RUCKUS
Watch bears for any amount of time in close quarters and you’ll soon notice most of their day is spent grazing and looking for food. They move slowly and methodically, with each step calculated and quiet. They seldom run, except when escaping danger or chasing prey.
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Bears have good—but not great—eyesight, and their hearing is exceptional. Even though they are a higher-level predator, they’re typically cautious and attuned to unnatural movements and sounds. If they sense danger, they will usually run away or climb a tree.
That means patience is key with bear hunting. For the spot-and-stalk hunter, it’s all about taking your time, moving very slowly and avoiding any unnecessary noises. If you move too quickly, you’ll likely foil your hunt. Snapping branches, crunching leaves and other out-of-place sounds will spook a bear in a hurry.