Viewing a single comment thread. View all comments

john_browns_beard t1_jdwdgb2 wrote

Reply to comment by Stacksmchenry in So nice to see all the spring birds (Watchung reservation 3/27) by Fishmike52

I know you're generally better off safe than sorry, but black bears are really not something to worry about. They almost always run away well before you see them, and if they do stick around, they are usually just curious and leave shortly after they get a good look at you. The exception is a mother with cubs, but the cubs are usually very vocal and it's hard to just walk up on them for that reason.

A can of bear mace will serve you better than just randomly yelling the whole time you're hiking.

6

metsurf t1_jdwyr98 wrote

Bear mace is illegal to purchase in NJ. The little cans available are not suitable for a bear.

2

Whats_A_Rage_Quit t1_je0e1l9 wrote

regardless of whether is "illegal" or not... they sell it at Costco.. they sell it at Ramsey outdoor.. and as an avid hiker/backpacker/outdoorsman I will tell you that i am always carrying it when i go (deep) into the woods. No cop is going to give a shit.

It's a backup that you 99% will never have to use. Bears, especially deep in the woods, do not want to interact with humans. Only time you ever might have an issue is if you have food on you. Regardless, as long as you don't spray a person, you're never going to have to answer to the law about it.

1