Beginner Campers: What To Do If You Encounter Wildlife

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Learn essential steps for handling wildlife encounters while camping. Choose secure campsites away from wildlife habitats, store food properly, and dispose of garbage correctly. Leave wildlife alone, make noise to alert them of your presence, and maintain a safe distance. For encounters with bears, stay calm, don’t run or climb trees, and slowly back away while facing the bear. If you encounter wolves, maintain eye contact, make loud noises, and never turn your back. When encountering cougars, make yourself look bigger, maintain eye contact, and back away slowly. If you encounter snakes, stay calm, give them space, and slowly back away. And remember to keep a safe distance and be cautious near water when encountering alligators.