If a hiker is on a trail anywhere in the western states, there’s a chance they could come face-to-face with a cougar. Understanding how to manage a mountain lion in the wild is a vital ability to keep hikers safe. Survivalist and TV host Bear Grylls knows firsthand the skills required to keep himself separated from a mountain lion, and continue the experience.
Here’s what Grylls had to state:
In this Bear Survival Idea, the first and crucial thing is to avoid running. Mountain lions are chase predators. That indicates if somebody runs, there’s a great chance the cougar will follow. It belongs to their natural impulses. Likewise, mountain lions choose to assault from behind, offering these huge cats an advantage.
Pointer # 2 is to be imposing and back away gradually. People ought to try to make themselves appear large. Putting hands in the air or waving trekking poles is a great way to appear like a larger animal that a cougar might not wish to tinker. Individuals ought to prevent crouching or flexing over.
While doing this, hikers ought to keep eye contact with the animal. If somebody looks away, the mountain lion may see that as a chance to attack. Continue to back away until you run out its area.
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Another practical idea is throwing rocks or sticks near the animal. A lot of animals choose not to combat, and seeing a person as a risk is an excellent way to scare a creature off. People can accomplish a similar result by speaking in a loud, firm voice.
National Park Service officials want to advise households in the backcountry or camping to pick up children if they see a mountain lion. Predators try to find smaller victim, and unfortunately, that could be a child.
Lastly, if someone is assaulted, they need to battle with any means essential.
Understanding how to deal with a mountain lion in the wild is a necessary ability to keep hikers safe. See what Bear Grylls recommends.