Why don’t bears wear socks? Because they have bear feet. Unbearable. Looks like this bear is still awake! These tracks were recently spotted in Bartlett Cove at @glacierbaynps after a dusting of snow. Even in winter, always be bear aware when traveling through bear country. 🐻 If you happen upon a bear crossing the road, identify yourself by talking calmly so the bear knows you are a human and not a prey animal. Asking the bear why it’s crossing the road should suffice. If it answers, because it was the chicken’s day off, the bear has discovered dad jokes. Be careful. 🐻 Remain still; stand your ground but slowly wave your arms. Show off your opposable thumbs so the bear recognizes you as a human. It may come closer or stand on its hind legs to get a better look or smell. A standing bear is usually curious, not threatening. “Really, Doug? That hat?” 🐻 Stay calm and remember that most bears don’t want to attack you; they usually just want to be left alone. Don’t we all? Bears may bluff their way out of an encounter, or an office potluck, by charging and then turning away at the last second. Bears may also react defensively by woofing, yawning, salivating, growling, snapping their jaws, and laying their ears back. 🐻 Pick up small children immediately, unless they been acting up and you’re trying to send a message. Again, slowly wave your arms above your head and tell the bear to back off. Find more bear safety tips at www.nps.gov/subjects/bears/safety.htm Images: Bear paw prints on a snow covered road. NPS/J.Mitrea #bear #bearpaw #pawprints #winteriscoming #alaska #glacierbay #footprints