Yep, you don't wanta surprise Black Bear, but they don't like the sound of little bells or the smell of pepper spray, so wear little bells to make sure you don't surprise any of those Black Bears that've taken to hiding behind poles or trees like that ^ and carry pepper spray just in case you do!! :lecturef_smilie:
But remember, neither bells nor pepper spray will work on Grizzly Bears, so you hafta watch out for and learn to recognise Black Bear and Grizzly Bear droppings so that you can leave the area quickly if you see any Grizzly Bear scats! nojoke
Black bear droppings are smaller and often contain berries, leaves, and possibly bits of fur. Grizzly bear droppings tend to contain small bells and smell of pepper...