The sobering reality of black-bear attacks — and how to stay safer outdoors

In recent weeks, parts of the Ozarks have been shaken by not one but two fatal black bear attacks — rare events in a region where human–bear conflicts are seldom deadly. In September 2025, a 70-lb juvenile black bear attacked 72-year-old Vernon Patton in Franklin County, Arkansas; Patton succumbed to his injuries days later. (People.com) Then, in October, a 60-year-old Missouri man camping at Sam’s Throne in the Ozark National Forest was found dead with signs of a struggle; authorities later tracked and killed a black bear they believed responsible. (The Guardian)

These tragic incidents remind us that while black bears generally avoid people, under certain circumstances they can pose real danger. In this post, we’ll examine what makes a bear attack possible — and share commonsense, practical steps you can take to reduce the risk when camping, hiking, or living in rural settings.

Why bear attacks are rare — but still possible

Bear behavior & risk factors

Black bears (Ursus americanus) are omnivores with excellent senses — especially smell — and a strong urge to avoid confrontation with humans. Most of the time, bears will retreat when they detect human presence. (MN DNR) Fatal attacks are exceedingly uncommon: data suggests a black bear kills a person roughly once every several years across North America. (National Park Service)

So what makes the difference in those rare, tragic cases? In many fatal incidents, the bear was:

• Surprised or cornered (for example, encountered suddenly at very close range);

• Food-conditioned or habituated (having learned that humans or campsites provide food);

• In a predatory mindset — meaning it viewed the human as prey, not a threat;

• Protecting cubs or a food source (e.g. carcass or cache).In the Ozarks case at Sam’s Throne, evidence suggests the bear may have entered the camp to access food or felt provoked during breakdown of the campsite. (The Guardian)

When a black bear does attack, it tends to do so aggressively — meaning you should not play dead. Instead, escape if possible, or fight back using any tools you have. (National Park Service)

The limitations of “myths” vs. reality

• “Bears only attack for food or surprise.” Mostly true, but not always. There are recorded incidents of predatory bears that stalk humans. (National Park Service)

• “If you play dead, the bear leaves you alone.” That strategy applies to grizzly bears, not black bears. With black bears, playing dead often invites further aggression. (National Park Service)

• “You can outrun a bear or climb a tree.” False and dangerous. Bears are fast (can run 25–30 mph), and both black and brown bears can climb trees. (National Park Service)

Common sense steps to reduce bear danger

Below are strategies you can adopt in the field, around your home, and while hiking to reduce risk — and promote coexistence.

1. Prevent attractants & minimize odor

• Store food, garbage, and scented items securely. Use bear-resistant containers, bear canisters, or hang food at least 10–15 feet off the ground and 4–6 feet from tree trunks when camping. (National Park Service)

• Never leave food scraps, pet food, or other attractants around your campsite or yard. Even minor food smells draw interest. (modernhomesteading.ca)

• Keep your cooking and sleeping areas separate. Cook and eat well away from tents; clean utensils and surfaces thoroughly.

• Manage trash properly. Use bear-resistant trash bins or lock it in a shed/garage temporarily.

• Secure poultry, livestock feed, and compost. Use electric netting or enclosures if in bear country. (modernhomesteading.ca)

2. Make noise & avoid surprise

• Travel in groups, talk or whistle, especially near streams or dense brush. Bears often avoid humans if they hear us coming.

• Use bear bells or carry a horn. But don’t rely solely on bells — human voice is more effective in announcing presence.

• Slow down at blind corners or in thick vegetation. Pause and scan before proceeding.

3. Choose campsites wisely

• Avoid established bear trails, riparian draws, berry patches, or carcass sites.

• Select open ground with visibility. Clear sightlines help you spot a bear early.

• Keep your campsite tidy. Don’t leave gear, food, or trash scattered.

4. Carry and know how to use bear deterrents

• Bear spray: Choose an EPA-approved bear pepper spray, know its range (often 20–30 feet), and practice unholstering and deploying it. Studies show bear spray stops aggressive behavior ~90 % of the time in close-range encounters. (Wikipedia)

• Use objects defensively: In the event of an attack, use trekking poles, rocks, sticks, even your fists, and aim at the bear’s face or muzzle. (National Park Service)

• No firearms as the first line of defense. Unless you are very well practiced, firearms may escalate chaos or fail under stress.

5. What to do if you see a bear or it charges

• Give it space. Back away calmly (never turn your back or run). Speak calmly, wave your arms to look larger. (MN DNR)

• Let the bear see a clear escape route. Never corner it.

• Watch for warning signals. Popping jaws, huffing, swatting the ground — these are signs the bear is stressed and may charge. (National Park Service)

• If the bear charges or attacks:

  • For black bears: fight back vigorously — target the face and muzzle, use everything you have. Do not play dead. (National Park Service)

  • If you can reach shelter (car, building), do so.

  • For predatory attacks or stalking: the same rule applies — fight, don’t run. (National Park Service)

6. At home or in rural areas

• Install motion-activated lighting or alarms near trash, beehives, barns, or outbuildings.

• Electric fence or secure perimeter fencing for beehives, poultry, or livestock.

• Remove attractants such as fallen fruit, bird feeders, or unsecured compost piles.

• Report bear sightings or aggressive behavior to wildlife authorities — early monitoring can help prevent escalation.

Final thoughts

Bear attacks — especially fatal ones — remain extremely rare, even in places like the Ozarks where bears are increasingly common. Yet as the recent tragedies show, the consequences can be severe. The key is awareness, respect, and preparation.

You can’t eliminate all risk, but you can make it overwhelmingly unlikely that a bear will see you as a food source or a threat to be neutralized. Secure your scents, travel smart, carry deterrents, and stay calm if the unexpected happens.