Signs of Formosan black bears regularly seen in Yushan National Park. Here’s how to protect yourself

Recently a Yushan national park warden found Formosan black bear tracks and fresh claw marks, showing that bears are regular visitors to the areas around the park trails. The scent of food left by hikers and an increase in the number of sambar, goats and other wild animals are also likely to attract the bears from the high mountains to the medium and high elevation forests where people are also active.

Although the bears are large and potentially dangerous, they will usually not attack humans unless they are injured or are mothers with cubs. If a bear is encountered, stay quiet and move slowly backwards if there is distance between you and the bear has not noticed your presence, then take a detour around the bear. Or wait and observe to see if it is aggressive. If a bear approaches you, do not run, scream or face away from it. Back away slowly and throw down anything you have that can trip it up or slow it down. Whatever you do, do not climb a tree or play dead. For more information about Formosan black bears visit the Conservation and Research of Taiwan Black Bears website.

Translated by：Kevin Lax
Source：Yushan National Park Headquarters