Washington State Hunters Ed Practice Exam

When encountering a bear while hunting, the best course of action is to stay calm, avoid sudden movements, and not run. Bears can be startled or threatened by unexpected behaviors such as running or shouting, which may lead to a more aggressive response from the bear. Speaking firmly helps to assert your presence and communicates that you are a human, rather than a prey animal. By backing away slowly, you are giving the bear space to recognize that you are not a threat, allowing it to move away without feeling cornered or provoked.

Playing dead may be appropriate in certain scenarios, particularly with a grizzly bear that makes contact, but it is not advisable as an initial reaction upon first sighting. Climbing a tree can be risky, as bears are adept climbers and attempting to do so might provoke the bear further. Throwing objects at a bear can escalate the situation and provoke aggression, which is not wise when trying to prevent confrontation. Overall, maintaining composure and gradually retreating is the most effective strategy when faced with a bear in the wild.