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Outdoor Safety: Bears and Mountain Lions
The Coconino National Forest is home to a delightful variety of wildlife, including horned toads, elk, coyotes, bald eagles, pronghorn, prairie dogs, blue herons... and black bears and mountain lions. While sightings are infrequent, being prepared for an unexpected encounter can make the difference between a wonderful memory and serious injury.
In recent years, bear and mountain lion attacks are most often a result of people approaching these animals to take photographs. Never follow, approach, or feed bears, mountain lions, or other wildlife. Keep your pet on-leash to keep it under control. Your pet's behavior -- whether it's exploring, attacking, or running away -- could prompt a bear or mountain lion attack.
Black Bears
Credit: Steve Hillerbrand, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
A bear is most likely to attack due to being surprised. Avoid bears by making noise as you walk through the forest. Be careful when exploring off-trail through heavy brush.
Nearly all bear sightings result in the bear running away. Knowing how to handle an encounter can help keep you and others safe. If you see a bear:
- Do not follow or approach the bear.
- Do not feed the bear.
- Detour calmly away from the area while keeping an eye on the bear.
If you are approached by a bear:
- Move away slowly.
- Keep the animal in your vision.
- Speak in a calm, low, strong voice.
If you are attacked by a bear:
- Get low, into a ditch or rut if possible.
- Lay on your stomach, cover your neck, and spread your legs to make it harder for the bear to turn you over. If the bear does roll you, keep rolling and stay on your stomach.
- Keep your pack on to provide additional protection to your body.
- Try not to struggle or scream.
- When the bear ceases its attack, do not move until you are completely certain the bear has left the area.
Mountain Lions
Mountain lions are more predatory than bears. While it is likely the animal will leave the area, stay alert and be cautious. If you spot the mountain lion again, stay alert and be prepared to defend yourself aggressively.
Additional Information
- Be Bear Aware: information on bear and mountain lion encounters
- Arizona Game & Fish: Living with mountain lions [PDF]
- Arizona Game & Fish: Living with bears [PDF]
- U.S. Forest Service: Bear Facts
Back to Outdoor Safety & Ethics