Known for the silver-tinted fur, the grizzly bears of the Kuril Islands in the Russian Far East have adapted over the millennia to improve their chances at catching fish as the light coloration makes them less visible to fish against the sky. The mutation exists in about 10% of the bear population and is reminiscent of silver-colored bears living along the Western coast of Canada which have been shown to be more successful in fish hunting due to the evolution in coloration.
The well fed on a diet of fish bear population in the Kurils are also known for another distinct trait, their impressive size. These bears can stand 9.8 feet tall on hind legs and a weigh up to 1,430 lbs.
These two snowmobilers caught an up close look at the size of one of these bears as they were attempting to chase it away from their remote fishing camp. When the duo managed to encircle the bear, it promptly turned the tables and staged an attack.
Moving towards a grizzly bear to scare it away is never a good idea. If you know there’s a grizzly in the area, you should leave the area rather than trying to force the bear awayAccording to Parks Canada, the best approach is always to avoid an encounter as much as possible. Carry bear spray while moving in bear country, travel in groups, and make plenty of noise so the bear knows you’re there. Read more on bear safety below.
Parks Canada Bear Safety Guidelines:
AVOID an encounter: the best approach
Bears are extremely sensitive to the stress of human activity. You can help protect these animals by avoiding encounters with them.
- Make noise! Let bears know you’re there. Call out, clap, sing or talk loudly especially near streams, dense vegetation and berry patches, on windy days, and in areas of low visibility. Bear bells are not enough.
- Watch for fresh bear sign. Tracks, droppings, diggings, torn-up logs and turned-over rocks are all signs that a bear has been in the area. Leave the area if the signs are fresh.
- Keep your dog on a leash at all times or leave it at home. Dogs can provoke defensive behaviour in bears.
- Larger size groups are less likely to have a serious bear encounter. We recommend hiking in a tight group of four or more. Never let children wander.
- Use officially marked paths and trails and travel during daylight hours.
- If you come across a large dead animal, leave the area immediately and report it to park staff.
- Dispose of fish offal in fast moving streams or the deep part of a lake, never along stream sides or lake shores.
Bear Spray
Carry bear spray with you at all times on the trail, and know how to use it. Bear spray can be effective with some bears when used properly. Be aware that wind, spray distance, rain, freezing temperatures and product shelf life can all influence its effectiveness. Familiarize yourself with the proper use of bear spray (including the manufacturer’s specific instructions) and keep it readily accessible.