Wisconsin Hunter's Safety Practice Exam

When you encounter a bear while hunting, remaining calm and backing away is the most appropriate action to take. Bears can be unpredictable, and your response can significantly influence the situation. By staying calm, you reduce the chances of provoking the bear, which could lead to a defensive response. Backing away slowly allows the bear to perceive that you are not a threat and gives it clearance to retreat if necessary.

Approaching a bear can be dangerous as it might feel cornered or threatened, prompting it to react aggressively. Running away is often not advisable because it could trigger the bear's instinct to chase, leading to a more hazardous situation. Making loud noises could potentially scare the bear, but it can also provoke it if it feels threatened or cannot escape. Therefore, the best course of action is to remain calm and back away, creating a safe distance between yourself and the bear without escalating the encounter.