Wild video footage captured near Robe Lake in Valdez, Alaska, offers a fascinating glimpse into the persistent ingenuity of Ursus americanus, commonly known as the American black bear, as it employs a technique eerily reminiscent of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in a determined effort to access the contents of a bear-proof trash receptacle. The incident, documented by local resident Justin Prax, highlights the ongoing challenge of coexisting with wildlife in increasingly populated areas and underscores the effectiveness of specialized waste management solutions.
The sequence of events began when Prax, alerted by the commotion of his barking dog, observed the bear outside his home. Through a window, he witnessed the animal repeatedly pressing down on a blue, heavy-duty garbage bin. The bear’s actions, characterized by a rhythmic push and release motion applied to the lid, strongly resembled chest compressions, a technique used in human CPR. This unusual behavior, while startling, is not an isolated phenomenon and has been observed and documented in numerous similar encounters across bear country.
This particular bear-proof bin, designed to withstand the strength and persistence of these formidable animals, ultimately proved successful in its primary function. The bear was unable to breach the container, and after repeated, unsuccessful attempts, it eventually retreated, presumably in search of more accessible food sources. Prax expressed relief that the bear was thwarted, emphasizing the importance of bear-resistant containers in preventing habituation and potential conflicts. He noted that bears that develop a taste for human-provided food sources often become repeat offenders, leading to increased human-wildlife encounters that can have negative consequences for both parties.
The "CPR Method," as it has colloquially become known, is a well-documented bear behavior observed when they encounter secure food storage. This behavior is often studied and observed at facilities like The Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center in West Yellowstone, Montana. This center serves as a sanctuary for problem bears that have become a nuisance or pose a safety risk to the public. Annually, approximately 60 different bear-proof products are submitted to the center for rigorous testing. Bears at the center are utilized to assess the efficacy of these products in real-world scenarios, ensuring that only the most robust designs are approved for public use. The "CPR Method" is a frequently observed tactic during these trials, demonstrating bears’ persistent problem-solving abilities when faced with secure food sources.
The implications of this incident extend beyond a single bear’s failed attempt at scavenging. As spring emerges and bears emerge from their winter hibernation, a critical period for wildlife management and public safety begins. The Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADFG) provides extensive guidelines and recommendations for residents living in bear country, emphasizing the paramount importance of securing all potential attractants. The ADFG’s “Bear Harmony” initiative, accessible through their website, offers comprehensive strategies for preventing food-conditioned bears from becoming problematic around human dwellings.
Preventing Bear Problems: A Collective Responsibility
The ADFG stresses that preventing negative bear encounters is a shared responsibility that extends to entire communities. Residents are encouraged to collaborate within their neighborhoods and engage with local authorities to promote responsible waste management practices. This includes diligently securing garbage, pet food, birdseed, and any other items that might lure bears. The goal is to eliminate human-derived food sources from a bear’s reach, thereby minimizing the likelihood of habituation and subsequent conflicts. Proactive communication about the presence of bears in a neighborhood is also crucial for fostering collective safety measures.
Securing Waste and Animal Feed
A cornerstone of bear-aware living involves the secure storage of garbage and animal feed. The ADFG strongly advises storing these items inside secure buildings or, more practically for daily use, within certified bear-proof containers. It is imperative that garbage is kept secured until the scheduled pickup time. In many Alaskan communities, regulations prohibit garbage from being left unsecured outside residences except for the morning of trash collection. Even in areas without such mandates, residents are urged to adopt this practice, encouraging neighbors to store their refuse in sturdy sheds or bear-resistant containers until the morning of disposal. For those utilizing public collection sites, regular visits are recommended, ensuring that waste is deposited directly into dumpsters and lids are securely closed, as these sites can act as significant bear attractants.
The Allure of Bird Feeders and Pet Food
Bird feeders, particularly those containing seeds and suet, are highly attractive to bears, especially black bears. The ADFG recommends taking down all bird feeders and thoroughly cleaning up spilled seed and hulls during active bear seasons, generally from April through November, depending on local climate conditions. Similarly, pet food, livestock feed, meat scraps, and fish remnants are potent attractants. These items must be stored securely, and any uneaten pet food should be brought indoors after pets have finished their meals. Livestock feed should be kept out of bears’ reach, and barbecues, which can retain strong odors, require diligent cleaning of grease and food residue after each use to deter bears.
Smokers, Gardens, and Vulnerable Entry Points
The ADFG also cautions against leaving meat or fish smokers unattended. For those engaged in smoking or drying fish and meat, protecting these racks and structures with electric fencing is recommended. Garden placement can also influence bear activity. Locating gardens in open areas, away from dense cover and established game trails, can help discourage bears. Composting organic materials that are known bear attractants, such as fish, meat, seaweed, and kelp, should be avoided due to their strong olfactory signals. Furthermore, all doors and windows, including garage doors, should be kept closed and locked, especially those that a bear could potentially climb through or pry open.
Livestock Protection and Property Maintenance
Domestic animals can inadvertently attract bears. Ensuring livestock are kept in safe enclosures, potentially protected by electric fencing, is vital. Chickens and rabbits in outdoor pens are particularly vulnerable and attractive prey for bears. Electric fences, when properly installed and maintained, have proven to be an effective deterrent, capable of keeping bears out of gardens, compost piles, and even protecting cabins and domestic animals. Maintaining a clean property and vehicles is also crucial. Reducing all potential attractants, not just obvious ones like garbage and birdseed, but also items such as animal hides, bones, fish waste, seal oil, wastewater, fishing tackle, discarded nets, dry racks, and even petroleum or rubber products and fuel cans, can significantly minimize the risk of unwanted bear encounters.
Remote Cabin Safety
For those with cabins in remote areas, packing out all garbage is the most recommended practice. If storing garbage at the cabin is unavoidable, it must be kept in a secure building or a bear-proof container, such as a steel drum with a locking lid. Burying garbage is strongly discouraged, as bears possess an acute sense of smell and can easily dig it up. Burning garbage can also attract bears. Upon leaving a remote cabin, it is advisable to pack out all refuse. Additional protective measures for cabins include boarding up structures with thick wood featuring outward-pointing nails or installing electrified mats or electric fencing around the perimeter.
The incident at Robe Lake serves as a potent reminder of the ongoing need for vigilance and education in areas where human and bear populations overlap. While technology and specialized containers offer robust solutions, the primary defense against negative human-bear interactions remains informed and responsible behavior by residents. By understanding bear behavior and diligently implementing recommended safety practices, communities can foster a more harmonious coexistence with their wild neighbors, ensuring the safety of both people and wildlife. The effectiveness of bear-proof containers, as demonstrated in Prax’s video, is a testament to ongoing efforts in developing solutions that allow for the necessary disposal of waste while mitigating the risks associated with attracting bears. The ADFG’s comprehensive guidelines provide a vital resource for anyone living in or visiting bear country, offering practical steps to reduce attractants and prevent potentially dangerous encounters. As the seasons change and wildlife activity increases, these preventative measures become even more critical.
