Black Bear Aggression in the Backcountry of Yosemite National Park

January 1, 1986
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Nine hundred and ninety-two interactions were recorded between black bears (Ursus americanus) and visitors in the backcountry of Yosemite National Park during 1978-79. Ursid aggression was observed in less than 6% of the interactions and less than 2% of the total bear behaviors recorded during those interactions. Running toward and jumping toward visitors constituted more than half of these aggressive behaviors. Age of visitors and distance between bears and people were 2 of the few factors correlated with bear aggression. Visitors usually responded to bear aggression with fear or neutrality. Understanding the circumstances in which black bears become agonistic can help park managers better prepare visitors for encounters.

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