Eli5: Why do grizzly bears leave humans alone if they pretend to be dead?
In: Biology
I’ve never had “the pleasure” but have read stories and heard one first hand account of playing dead. They will likely not see you as a threat but they don’t EXACTLY leave you alone either. They will sniff, swat and push on you and your life may well depend on your ability to not react to any investigative injuries you might endure. A 600 lb. bear claw can do some damage even if not intended. My friend said he almost gagged and barfed at the bear’s breath as it was smelling around his face.
[deleted]
Bears don’t like eating people, just attacking them when they feel they are scared or protecting their babies. Humans aren’t a threat when they’re dead
This post is actually quite useful. But, please baby Jesus, make it so that I never have to defend myself against, or have to outsmart or outrun a bear under any circumstance. Make it so.
Latest Answers