What to Do When You Encounter Animals in the Wild

Spending time outdoors is one of the best ways to reset and recharge, but the wild is home to more than just beautiful views. Whether you’re hiking, camping, or fishing, crossing paths with wildlife is always a possibility. Most encounters are harmless if handled correctly, but knowing what to do in the moment can make all the difference. Here’s a guide to what you should do when encountering animals in the wild.

Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

No matter what kind of animal you come across, the most important thing is to stay calm. Sudden movements, loud noises, or panicked behavior can trigger defensive reactions. Take a moment to stop, breathe, and observe from a safe distance before deciding what to do next.

Deer and Other Herbivores

Deer, elk, and similar animals are usually more scared of you than you are of them.

• Do: Stay quiet, move slowly, and give them space. If they seem startled, freeze and let them move away first.

• Don’t: Chase, corner, or attempt to feed them. Even gentle-looking animals can kick or charge if they feel threatened.

Bears

Bears are among the most intimidating animals you could meet, but most encounters end peacefully if handled properly.

• Do: Stay calm, speak in a low, firm voice, and slowly back away. Make yourself look larger by raising your arms or opening a jacket. If the bear hasn’t noticed you, quietly move away without drawing attention.

• Don’t: Run. Bears can outrun humans and may chase if you flee. Avoid climbing trees. Some bears can climb better than you think.

If a bear approaches you:

• For black bears, make noise and try to scare them off by waving your arms.

• For grizzlies, avoid eye contact and play dead if contact is unavoidable, lying flat on your stomach and covering your neck.

Coyotes and Wolves

Coyotes and wolves are cautious around humans, but they can become bold, especially if they associate people with food.

• Do: Stand tall, make yourself look bigger, and make loud noises to scare them away. Back away slowly while maintaining eye contact.

• Don’t: Turn your back or run. Predators are more likely to chase something fleeing.

If they seem aggressive or don’t back off, throw small rocks or sticks near them (not directly at them) to reinforce the message that you’re not prey.

Snakes

Snakes are more common than most people realize, but bites are rare if you respect their space.

• Do: Stop immediately if you see a snake and slowly back away. Most snakes will move off on their own.

• Don’t: Try to touch, catch, or kill the snake. Many bites happen when people attempt to handle them.

If bitten, remain calm, keep the affected limb below heart level, and seek medical help right away. Don’t try to suck out the venom or apply a tourniquet.

Mountain Lions and Other Big Cats

Big cats like mountain lions are elusive, but encounters can happen in certain regions.

• Do: Maintain eye contact, stand tall, and wave your arms to appear larger. Speak firmly and back away slowly.

• Don’t: Run or crouch down. These actions can trigger predatory instincts.

If a mountain lion approaches aggressively, throw rocks or sticks and fight back if necessary. Most will retreat once they realize you’re not easy prey.

Insects and Smaller Creatures

From wasps to raccoons, smaller wildlife can still cause trouble.

• Do: Avoid swatting or startling them. Give raccoons, skunks, and similar animals space, especially if they’re acting strangely (which could indicate rabies).

• Don’t: Leave food scraps around campsites. Secure all trash and food in sealed containers to avoid attracting unwanted visitors.

Preventing Encounters Before They Happen

The best way to handle encounters with animals in the wild is to avoid them in the first place. Follow these safety tips:

• Make noise as you hike so animals know you’re coming.

• Store food and trash properly at campsites.

• Keep pets leashed to avoid provoking wildlife.

• Learn about the animals native to the area you’re exploring and how to handle encounters before you go.

Encountering animals in the wild is part of the outdoor experience, but it doesn’t have to be dangerous. By staying calm, respecting their space, and knowing how to respond, you can enjoy your time outdoors safely. Nature is unpredictable, but preparation and awareness go a long way toward keeping both you and the animals safe.

encountering animals in the wild