One of the most exciting aspects of spending time in the White Mountains is the opportunity to see wildlife such as white-tailed deer (the New Hampshire state mammal), moose, fox, bear and other native animals.
Do I need bear spray in the White Mountains?
Backpackers camping off-trail in the White Mountain National Forest (WMNF) are encouraged to carry a bear canister.
Does the White Mountains have bears?
Bear canisters are available to rent for free at all of our Ranger Stations and Visitor Centers. See a guide on how to pack a bear canister. Coolers, food scraps, and backpacks left unattended are snack invitations to a hungry black bear.
Where do bears live in NH?
Black bears usually den in brush piles, logging slash or hollow trees, under a fallen tree or under rock outcrops. Typically, winter dens are 5 1/2 feet long and 2 feet high.
What animals are in White Mountains NH?
It is home to wildlife species including bald eagle, raccoon, beaver, white-tailed deer, moose, black bear, coyote, peregrine falcon, Canadian lynx, river otter, bobcat, gray and red foxes, fisher, mink and porcupine.
What handgun will stop a bear?
44 Magnum is the minimum for charging bears, many others have opted for a Glock 20 in 10mm Auto and, interestingly enough, passed right by the . 357 S&W Magnum. Several folks have even successfully killed bears with a 9mm. While a well-placed shot from a 10mm can no doubt do the trick, the .
What to do if bear comes to tent at night?
Yell at the bear and firmly tell it to leave: “Get out of here, bear!” Keep a can of bear spray ready (with the safety removed) in case the bear approaches too closely. For more information on how to deter black bears, click here. Never try to move a grizzly bear!
Are there grizzly bears in New Hampshire?
What kind of bears live in New Hampshire? The black bear is the only bear species in New Hampshire. Population estimates range between 4,800 to 5,000 bears statewide. Regional bear densities across the state range between 0.1-1.0 bears/square mile and average 0.5 bears/square mile.
Are there mountain lions in New Hampshire?
Mountain Lions in NH
Despite numerous reports, the NH Fish and Game Department continues to have no physical evidence of mountain lion presence in the state. The species that once inhabited the Northeast, known as the eastern mountain lion, is now extinct.
What to do if you see a bear in the mountains?
If a bear persistently follows or approaches you, without vocalizing, or paw swatting:
- Change your direction.
- If the bear continues to follow you, stand your ground.
- If the bear gets closer, talk loudly or shout at it.
- Act aggressively to intimidate the bear.
- Act together as a group if you have companions.
Are there wolves in NH?
Wolves were extirpated from New Hampshire in the early 1800’s. Currently, the closest population of eastern wolves exists in Quebec, north of the St. Lawrence River.
What big cats live in NH?
In New Hampshire, the bobcat population probably numbers in the hundreds. It is the only large cat species still found in any significant numbers in the state.
What do you do if you see a bear in New Hampshire?
Stand your ground and slowly back away. Enjoy watching black bears and other wildlife from a distance. Respect them and their right to live in wild New Hampshire. Black bears do not typically exhibit aggressive behavior, even when confronted.
Are there snakes in White Mountains NH?
Timber Rattlesnakes are the only venomous snake species living in New Hampshire. They are found in the White Mountains and are critically endangered.
Are there black wolves in NH?
Although there is a chance that wolves can live in New Hampshire, no wild wolf populations have been confirmed there. The gray wolf is the only member of the canid family with ties to New Hampshire.
What big animals live in NH?
New Hampshire’s forests and mountain areas are home to coyotes, bobcats, red foxes, gray foxes, and wolves. These nocturnal predators hunt white-tail deer, rabbits, mice, and other small wild critters. Black bears and moose also live in the forests.
Where do you aim at a charging bear?
Aim for the deadliest point you can find. On a close-in, charging bear, this will probably be the face or upper chest. Often full-attack grizzlies lower their heads as they come in, so that’s about all you have to aim at.
Is bear spray better than a gun?
No deterrent is 100% effective, but compared to all others, including firearms, proper use of bear spray has proven to be the best method for fending off threatening and attacking bears, and for preventing injury to the person and animal involved.
Will a taser stop a grizzly bear?
Neither wasp spray nor Tasers are considered proven bear deterrents. (A Taser is an electroshock weapon that uses electrical current to disrupt voluntary control of muscles.
Do dryer sheets keep bears away?
Most animals dislike the smell of fabric softener sheets, the kind you use in your dryer. They can also cover the smell of food. Take a pack with you in your camping supplies and put them everywhere: in your cooler, tent, sleeping bag, and backpack.
What do bears hate?
Bears also dislike the strong scent of pine-based cleaners, but avoid using anything with a fresh, lemony or fruity smell. And never mix bleach and ammonia; the combination produces fumes that can be deadly to both people and bears.