Rash Of Backpack Thefts On NC Trails Blamed On Peckish Bears

NORTH CAROLINA — Backpack thefts are up along remote hiking trails in southwestern North Carolina, U.S. Forest Service warned this week. The primary suspects: greedy black bears.

Hikers are reporting an increase in bear encounters in the Joyce Kilmer-Slickrock Wilderness on the Nantahala National Forest, the U.S. Forest Service said.

In some cases, the bears are waiting for hours or even days along trails before they attempt to snatch food and packs from hikers, the forest service said.

Trails were the encounters occurred including the Haoe Lead Trail TR53, Stratton Bald Trail TR54, Hangover Lead Trail TR56 and Hangover Trail TR56A.

"No injuries have been reported," the forest service said. "Encounters include bears stealing food and backpacks. The bears will often stay in the area of the incident for multiple hours, possibly days, depending on availability of food sources. This time of the year black bears are opportunistically looking for food that campers and trail users bring on their trips.

While attacks on humans are rare, they have been fatal, the forest service said.

Deadly bear encounters are extremely rare, according to the North American Bear Center, which says that since 1900, black bears have killed 61 people in North America.

"If you are attacked by a black bear, try to fight back using any object available. Act aggressively and intimidate the bear by yelling and waving your arms," the forest service said. "Playing dead is not appropriate."

To avoid a bear attack, the U.S. Forest Service recommends the following:

• Keep dogs on a leash in areas where bears are reported.
• If you notice a bear nearby, pack up your food and trash immediately and vacate the area as soon as possible.
• If a bear approaches, move away slowly; do not run.
• If necessary, attempt to scare the animal away with loud shouts, by banging pans together, or throwing rocks and sticks at it.
• Do not store food in tents.
• Properly store food and scented items like toothpaste by using a bear-proof container.
• Clean up food or garbage around areas of your campsite.
• Do not leave food unattended.
• Never run away from a bear. Back away slowly and make lots of noise.

Read more tips from the National Park Service about how to stay safe around bears here.