WILD ANIMAL SAFETY TIPS

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Things to know before you go!
BLACK BEARS
Black bears are more aggressive in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park because they are more used to humans. You are more likely to see a bear in late summer looking for berries or in the fall searching for acorns. However, when you do encounter one, here is information you should know.
When camping overnight, put food high up between two trees or put your food in your car.
Never run from a bear, they can reach speeds of 30 mph.
Back away slowly, make noise, scream, yell, wave your arms & hold your arms up high to make yourself appear bigger.
Do not play dead.
 Do not ever get between a mother and her cubs.
Do not feed the bears. By doing so you help reduce the bear's lifespan by 25 - 30 % if they become used to human food. They will become more aggressive and may have to be relocated or put down.
POISONOUS SNAKES
Rattlesnakes prefer cliffs, rock outcroppings and sunning themselves in sunspots on the trail. Leave them alone. If they know they are being watched after a while they will crawl away to more secluded surroundings. Old sayings claim if you see one rattler you have already passed by another one. There is no scientific evidence to support this that I know of. Most people are snake bitten on legs or arms. Do not reach into rocks, ledges or under tree roots where you cannot see. Do not step over large rocks or fallen tree limbs without first checking for snakes. I use my hiking staff to rake along the unseen side of obstacles I plan on stepping over.
"Timber Rattler"
Copperheads are very aggressive, but you are less likely to encounter one on the trail because they prefer lower elevations. Copperheads prefer brush piles, rock piles & old rotten logs. Some people claim that these snakes give off a strong sweet odor.
If you are bitten: Wash the wound. Keep the injured area lower than the heart. Call for emergency help. Do not apply ice. Do not cut the wound. If possible carry the victim or have them walk slowly.
WILD ANIMALS
Normally wild animals such as raccoons, foxes, opposum & skunks will run from you. If you can get close to a wild animal or one that is usually seen at night, then there is something wrong.
 It may be sick or rabid. Do not touch it.
INSECTS
Rocky Mountian Spotted Fever comes from dog ticks. If you find a tick on you, remove it and keep it in plastic bag.. You may not get a fever until days later. Having the evidence will help the diagnosis. There have been cases of Lyme Disease not being diagnosed until a year after being infected.
Check for ticks as soon as you return indoors. Researchers believe ticks must be imbedded in your skin 24 to 48 hours before infection occurs.
Dog Tick
Deer ticks carry Lyme Disease. They are tiny, sometimes no larger than the head of a pin. More information can be found at the
Center for Disease Control at www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/lymeinfo.htm
INSECT STINGS
Deer Tick The most common complaint for woodland emergencies comes from bee & wasp stings. Many people become allergic to insect stings even if they have never had allergic reactions in the past. If stung wash wound. Apply cold pack. Seek medical attention.
POISONOUS PLANTS
Leaves of three, let them be. If you aren't sure if the plant is poison or not, leave it alone. If you contact poison ivy, poison oak or poison sumac; wash with soap & cold water. It will help to break down the oils that are absorbed into the skin.
Poison Ivy
Photographs & Illustrations © 2001 Michael M. Rogers
Information provided with co-operation of
USDA Forest Service, Wayah Ranger District, 90 Sloan Road, Franklin, NC 28734. Contact phone (828) 524-6441.