How to Approach a Polar Bear

If you're hiking in an area where polar bears live, you may run into one of these big, white animals. If you want to get a closer look or take a picture of one, you may be wondering how to approach a wild polar bear.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Talk to national park rangers if you're hiking in a national park. They can let you know if there are any polar bear sightings.

2. Travel when visibility and weather are good. Poor visibility can make it easier for a polar bear to sneak up on you and harder for you to approach a polar bear safely.

3. Reduce odors. Don't use scented perfume, colognes, shampoos or lotions. Wrap up food thoroughly so the polar bear doesn't attack you for your food.

4. Consider hiring a guide who can help you approach a polar bear safely or safely steer you clear of polar bears.

5. Learn the behaviors of an aggressive bear. An aggressive bear will stare at you, smack its jaws together, make huffing sounds or pound its feet. Never approach a bear that's behaving this way. Try to get them to leave the area by making a lot of noise.

6. Remember that while polar bears are beautiful animals, they are wild and can be unpredictable. They're not teddy bears. Many experts do not recommend trying to approach polar bears.

Tips & Warnings

• Defend yourself if the bear attacks with whatever weapon you have.
• Avoid mother bears and her cubs since mother bears will assume you're going to hurt her babies.
• Never touch a polar bear. You could get maimed.

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