Backpacking and Hiking Tip #8

-Animals-

When you get ready to hit the trail, take a look to see what type of animals you might have to face while out.

Here is a break down for North America, if you're heading out internationally, be sure to look up wildlife native to the land(s) you are heading to.

Horses:  Ok, so this one is not strictly domestic the N. America, but you may come across them.  If you are coming across a horse on a trail that is coming towards you, turn and go downhill, that way you do not appear large and menacing to the horse.



Venom:  There are multiple species of animals that are venomous and are dangerous to you if they believe you are hostile.  In N. Am. there are 4 species of poisonous snakes:  Corral, Rattle, Cottonmouth (aka Water Mocassin).


There are also species of venomous spiders (such as the Black Widow).  Learn about the local ones for where you're going and learn the appropriate action if you run across them.

Small/Medium Critters:  These are your insects, birds, bats, raccoons, mice, etc.  I know this is a wide array, but they key here is that have some very common qualities.  These species are well known for carrying bacteria and diseases, get into your gear (especially food) if not stored properly.  There size allows them plenty of access and movement around a camp or along a trail.

Big Animals:  These are your bears, wild cats, wild canines, other large critters, to also include domesticated versions of these animals.  If you see an individual out on the trail with a pet on a lease, be sure to ask the owner's permission before petting, and approach cautiously and in a friendly manner (smile and open hand with palm up).  With the various types of species, look up how to handle them appropriately.  Example:  when you come across a bear, quietly back away, do not lay in the fetal position).

Store your food in a bear bag, attached to at least two different trees for best effect.  Also, when you cook or remove waste from your body, do so at least 100 ft from where you will be sleeping.

Pictured is a bobcat (I did not take the photo), and it reminds me of an excursion to Devil's Marbleyard.  Late at night I was lying in my hammock working on falling asleep when I noticed the sound of a third breathing object (my hiking buddy's, mine, and another).  I laying quietly, not moving.  Thinking about it, I remembered that we had heard the call of a bobcat earlier that evening.  The "area" and "tone" of the breath happened to sound similar and appropriate to that of the wild animal.  The animal sat there quietly, watching towards our camp area.  As defense, I crossed my arms and tucked my head in, this is a protective position as I did not want to make any major movements to disturb the animal, and I also wanted to protect my major organs.  The next main notation of an unwelcome animal was the sound of our bear bag being "played" with.  After some time, the sounds stopped and the extra breathing disappeared.  In the morning we found our bear bag had been knocked down slightly, there were no prints left behind as the ground was not soft enough to pick it up.

The key to animals is to not make yourself intimidating and to know what you may be getting yourself into.  Knowledge is power.

Venture On!