Chris Maack
> So for those of us not
>skilled in wielding firearms, it's back to singing loudly and
>wearing bells.
____________
I should think singing and tinkling bells would not be very conducive to
bird watching.

The latest bear deterrent for those who do carry firearms is what's called a
"flare shell" loaded as the first round in a pump shotgun. Apparently
bears find it terrifying and the worst thing that happens is a little singe
of their fur.

I once scared a black bear out of my camp by just clapping my hands and
yelling; but I doubt that would have worked if he'd been angry. Does anyone
actually believe that one could stop a charging bear with pepper spray?
That sounds about as effective as shaking your finger and saying no.

John Shelton
Portland, Oregon