Walking with Bears - Oh My!

I love getting outside for my daily walks. Fresh air and sunshine give me a boost unlike anything else, but in recent days I had to change things up to accommodate for some new visitors.

As I mentioned before, we have a mother bear and her cub hanging out here lately, but the other day they came a bit too close for comfort.

On this particular day, I was in full power walk mode, taking long brisk strides in sync with the songs on my earphones. As I continued along, a black shadow emerged from the woods and onto my path. It was a large sow, perhaps twenty feet away. Needless to say - I came to an abrupt stop, held my breath and readied myself with the bear spray that I always carry. She hesitated and turned to look behind her as the cub came into full view. They slowly shuffled across the dirt drive and wandered into the woods. She never looked my way - never acknowledged my presence and for that, I am thankful.

I continued with my daily walks, but was much more aware of my surroundings. A more cautious state of mind had replaced the once carefree version.

I started to settle into this new normal.

But then, more came.

I glanced out the window one afternoon only to see a different bear with two cubs frolicking about our front field. Later in the day, we saw the original sow with the single cub enjoying a berry filled bush.

And now, we see them almost every day.

The cubs are so fun to watch.  They wrestle with each other, slide, roll and tumble - seemingly unfazed by the world around them. And the mothers are ever protective of their precious cargo.

The fringes of forest offer the best vegetation, so we are guessing this is why they have taken up residence here as they fatten themselves up for a long winters nap.

Sadly, bear season has begun. Our property is posted and is a safe zone for them, but of course they don't know that! Hopefully, they continue to find refuge here and are unscathed by the hunters that seek them out.

They are truly beautiful creatures and I love seeing them, but don't want to invade their space or risk another encounter.

While outside, we are mindful of their presence. We check for them before heading out with our little dogs and keep them leashed and by our sides at all times. My daily walks are now spent on the treadmill and this will have to suffice for the time being. 

Have you had to make any adjustments for wildlife in your area?