Keep bear contacts to a bare minimum. That's the best way to continue the state's positive bear safety record, says Pennsylvania Game Commission black bear biologist Mark Ternent.

Just as autumn weather brings hunters, anglers and fall color-seekers into wooded areas, black bears are beginning to bulk up for winter denning, which begins in November. Some bears might supplement their diets with visits to waste dumps and unsecured garbage cans, increasing the possibility of negative bear-human contact.

Such contact is almost always more unpleasant for the bears, which are likely to turn and run. But those that get used to feeding in proximity to humans, or getting fed by them, could react aggressively when the food supply is turned off.

There is no record of a Pennsylvania black bear killing a human, and fewer than 25 reported injuries resulting from black bear encounters during the past 10 years. Pennsylvania's bear population currently is estimated at 15,000.Elsewhere in North America, however, human deaths have been attributed to encounters with black bears.

"While Pennsylvania bears are mostly timid animals that would sooner run than confront people, residents should know a few things about how to react if they encounter a bear, or better yet, how to avoid an encounter altogether by reducing the likelihood of attracting bears in the first place," said Ternent.

"Pennsylvanians need to understand that when bears become habituated to getting food from people, it can lead to conflicts, property damage and the possibility of injury or eventual destruction of the bear," he said. "Feeding wildlife, whether the activity is intended for birds or deer, can draw bears into an area. Once bears become habituated to an area where they find food, they will continue to return, which is when the bear can become a real problem for homeowners and neighbors. Even more disturbing are the reports we receive about people intentionally feeding bears to make them more visible for viewing or photographing."

If you confront a bear, remain calm, slowly back away while talking quietly and don't run.

If the bear charges, hold your ground, wave your arms and yell at the bear -- bluffing in fake attacks is common.

If it attacks, fight back targeting its eyes and nose as you protect yourself and continue backing away, if possible.

"Bears should not be feared, nor should they be dismissed as harmless; they simply need to be respected," Ternent said.

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