Whether we're gearing up for a camping trip or for a hike in the mountains, there are more things to consider than what kind of backpack to take with you.
When it comes to the great outdoors, it's extremely important that you know what precautions to take against wild animals. Though it's hard to believe, real-life encounters absolutely do happen — just like this man experienced when he came face to face with an elephant in the wild.
In our exclusive guide below, we introduce some of the most well-known wild animals in our midst, and what to do if you ever come upon them — or, in worst case scenarios, when you have to physically protect yourself from their oncoming attacks.
Some of these animals are truly harmless, and have, over time, simply become accustomed to our presence. Still, it's incredibly useful to know how not to aggravate, intimidate, or frighten them. The last thing we want is to make enemies out of beautiful, wild creatures.
Scroll down to learn about some of the most vital survival strategies against common wild animals, and let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
Strategy #1: Bears
It is not terribly out of the question for mountain bikers and hikers to encounter bears in the wild. And though they are indeed wild animals, bears have become addicted to the trails of garbage that humans leave behind and don't completely feel as if we are foreign.
Bears rarely hunt humans as prey, according to MountainNature. However, they will become defensive if they're watching over cubs, or if you've tread close to their kill site. In the event that a bear has detected your presence, speak calmly, so that it knows you're a human.
Try to slowly wave your hands in the air, and make small movements. The goal is to let it identify you, and to not pose yourself as a threat. Usually, the bear will give ground to you, at which point, do your best to back away slowly.
However, if the bear is showing signs of aggression, do not run, as you'll never outrun the bear. Assess the situation as best you can and look for areas of retreat.
Strategy #2: Wolves
Wolves are known to avoid human contact as best they can. According to Western Wildlife Outreach, wolves, like bears, are not aggressive toward humans by nature.
In the event that you do face a pack of wolves, however, it's important to not run. Wolves are hunters, and this will make you look like prey. The key is to not turn your back on the animal, and to not "stare them down," according to Oliver Starr, a wildlife activist and wolf expert. This will make you look like a threat, and encourage them to attack.
The smartest thing to do is to stay calm, and back away slowly. If they show slight signs of aggression, make yourself appear big and scary — hold up pots and pans near the campfire, lift up your backpack, or raise your arms in the air. At the same time, try to maintain eye contact with them.
Strategy #3: Killer Bees
First of all, do your best to not provoke an attack by a swarm of bees. Some of the movements that aggravate them include: a disturbance to their hive, loud noise, a strong odor or fragrance, dark clothes, and shiny jewelry. Try not to use machinery near a tree that has a hive, and don't walk barking dogs, either.
If you do see an oncoming swarm of bees, absolutely run. WikiHow advises to try and run in a straight line as fast as you can, and look for nearby shelter. Most people can outrun Africanized honey bees, as they're slow fliers.
But most importantly, cover and protect your face as you run. Pull up your shirt to partially cover your eyes and other sensitive areas, but don't slow down your running. Tuck your arms in — bees are attracted to movement, so don't flail your arms around.
Strategy #4: Jellyfish
The common myth is that if you ever get stung by a jellyfish, you'll have to urinate on your wound. According to Scientific American, urine usually aggravates the jellyfish's stingers and will release more venom into your skin.
Though it's hard to believe, jellyfish do float near many of the world's beaches. Some jellyfish have "stinging" skin cells and have nematocysts, or pockets, if you will, that contain venom. They are spread along the jellyfish's tentacles.
Once stung, the pain is instant. There will be burning, swelling, and maybe even bleeding. In the first couple of minutes, do your best to clean out the affected area. But do not use regular water — this could "break" the stinging cells inside the tentacles, and release another sting. If available, use a saline solution to clean the wound. If you're near water, simply use sea water. Make sure you don't apply ice directly on the injury.
Click "Page 2" to learn what to do if you encounter a raccoon!
Strategy #5: Rabid Raccoons
Most of us see raccoons as nasty pests. By nature, they are harmless — but, according to The Humane Society, it's important to know that the raccoon is one of the most common carriers of the rabies virus in the country (along with foxes, bats, and skunks).
According to the CDC, only one human has ever died from "raccoon rabies," but it's still vital to know how to spot a rabid raccoon.
Usually, they will have a staggering gait, have discharge from the eyes or mouth, have wet and matted hair, and make high-pitched sounds. They will also wander in an abnormal path and not appear aware of loud noises.
If you see a raccoon near your house during the day, there's probably no great need to panic. She is probably just foraging to support her children. But if she does display the above symptoms, be sure to keep away to lower the risk of being attacked.
Strategy #6: Rattlesnakes
Numerous hikers have encountered snakes before, so the first step to prevent danger would be to know how to prepare yourself. According to the Washington Trails Association, only go hiking with trekking poles, walk only on clear, open sections, and wear long pants and high boots.
There are ways to check whether a region has been reported to have snakes, so that should be done before you embark on a trip. But if you happen to come across a rattlesnake along your trail, freeze. You don't want to pose yourself as a threat to the snake, who may choose to strike instantly. Try to slowly move away from the snake.
However, if you do get bitten, remain calm. If you elevate your heart rate and move a lot, the venom will move fast through your body. In fact, most deaths by rattlesnake bites are caused by shock, rather than the actual venom.
So, layer on clothes to keep warm and lie still. Have someone around you dial 911 for further assistance.
Strategy #7: Alligators
Most people wouldn't be caught in a situation with an alligator, but if you happen to be in swampy areas in states like Florida or Louisiana (who have the largest alligator populations in America), you'll have to take note of some survival tips.
WikiHow advises to not be out near alligator habitats near dusk or at night, when they are most active. Remain extremely cautious if you're going out on the water, and try to keep your distance from the shore if you'll be walking close to the water.
If you do encounter an alligator on land, stay calm and retreat slowly. But if it charges at you, start running away as fast as you can. These beasts are rapid in water, but on land, they'll go only 10 mph, a pace that you'll be able to outrun.
Strategy #8: Coyotes
Generally nocturnal, coyotes have, in recent times, crept into larger urban areas with rather high human populations. They move constantly between territories in search of prey. Though coyotes are naturally afraid of humans, The Humane Society notes that they are slowly becoming accustomed to our presence.
Coyotes who are used to receiving human handouts may begin to feel more comfortable approaching us. Though coyote attacks are rare, there are still steps we can take to prevent them from coming near us.
These animals will often seek refuge in the larger bushes and hedges around your residence, so make sure to regularly clear and trim the dense weeds and brush around your house. This will also make the area around your house less attractive to rodents and rabbits, who are primary prey for coyotes.
Please SHARE if you will keep these defense strategies in mind, and if you'd like to recommend them to family and friends!
