WYOMING – Your chances of running into a grizzly bear are much higher in Wyoming than many other states across the nation, so carrying bear spray is incredibly important if you’re headed into the wilderness. But a can of bear spray isn’t much use if you don’t know how to use it, so Wyoming Game & Fish has partnered with the American Bear Foundation and the Safari Club International Foundation to distribute spray and provide training to the public, for free. The training utilizes a unique robotic bear, designed to create a time-sensitive situation for those hoping to learn.
The remote-controlled charging bear simulator, named the “robobear”, is exactly what it sounds like. Essentially a bear statue on a wheeled platform, the machine charges at the trainee, allowing them to test their ability to access the can and spray the bear in a quick manner.
“Robobear has been a valuable addition to these bear spray giveaways, because it’s difficult to know how you will react in a high stress situation. So, planning and practice are critical.” – SCIF Large Carnivore Program Manager Maria Davidson
Residents of Wyoming can still access two of these bear spray giveaways and trainings this upcoming weekend. The Lander Bear Spray Giveaway in Lander takes place on Saturday, while the Cody Bear Spray Giveaway in Cody takes place on Sunday.