SPOKANE, Wash. – Huckleberries are blooming across the Inland Northwest, a sweet treat for both people and bears alike.
“Huckleberries are one of the big food sources for bears so that’s what we would consider one of the big things to be aware of,” said Regan Harris, a wildlife conflict specialist.
When you do finally find that patch of huckleberries, make sure to stay aware of your surroundings.
“If the bear doesn’t know you’re there, that gives you the opportunity to slowly back out, quietly see if he can get out of there unobserved,” Harris said.
Recently, a local man said he was out picking huckleberries near Priest River when he encountered a grizzly bear with her cub. The bear charged at him and he posted about his experience online.
“The best thing for you to do (if a bear sees you) is wave your hands in the air, wave a jacket, backpack, anything you have and talk to the bear, just to signify that you’re human,” Harris explained.
If you find yourself in a situation where the bear keeps approaching while you back away, Harris said that’s when it’s time to get more aggressive.