Now even cycling gets you killed

2gypsies wrote:
Your weapon would have only made the bear madder!

Not if the shot is on the money.

I have read the various stories on the 'net about this occurrence. "Officials" state that determination of possible euthanization may be based on "what will be done to the bear if it is found. They are trying to determine if it was a mother with cubs, whether it was protecting a food cache nearby or whether it simply reacted to the sudden appearance of the bikers, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks spokesman Ron Aasheim said."

https://www.yahoo.com/news/grizzly-kills-mountain-biker-near-glacier-national-park-062413204.html

In my opinions, NOTHING should be done to the bear. The ne'er-do-wells who bark and complain about man's infringment and affect on wildlife I would think would agree with my position. Ursa was only doing what is natural... and if man is going to be in the same preserved locations then man should not complain. Nor should there be any recourse should man defend himself (in whatever manner) if there should be a fight for life on either;s part.

I carry when in the backwoods. I also bring pepper spray. But one must be cognizant of wind when using an aerosol deterrent. At close range, a hand gun or long gun with gusts may be more appropriate.

I have been in many close encounters with deer, elk as well as black bear, moose and mountain lion. Knowing their attitudes and how to react is half the battle. The bicyclist was intruding on natural territory. The risks are there. Do not punish nature because of ignorant users.