In nature, a hiking trip, walk through the park, or other outdoor activity, may result in an encounter with a wild animal. A wild animal can be unpredictable at any moment, even if the species is familiar to you. Although we see squirrels, raccoons, rabbits, and other living creatures in nature, we cannot trust a wild animal based on our familiarity with the species. They can be harmful and defensive if provoked in any way. Here are some tips and guidelines to follow if you ever encounter wild animals in nature.

⚠ Remain Calm

Understandably, this is easier said than done, but remaining calm can be the difference between life and death. An outburst of sudden panic can potentially be sensed by the animal, marking you as weak and easy prey. Also, a calm mind is a smarter and more alert mind. Staying calm will allow you to make better impulsive decisions.

⚠ Do Not Approach

If you see a wild animal of any kind, never attempt to approach it. Look afar and do not make eye contact. If you desperately want a closer look, use binoculars, otherwise just forget it. Moving about and attempting to get closer will bring you unwanted attention, and make the animal aware of your presence.

⚠ Back Away Slowly

If you have children with you, place them behind your back, and begin to back away slowly without making eye contact. Do not turn your back on the animal. You may choose to make yourself look bigger by placing your arms above your head, or spreading your jacket out above your head to appear more threatening. You only want to do this if this animal begins to approach you. Otherwise, just continue to back away slowly.

⚠ Do Not Run

There have been numerous studies on cases in which people have either run or stood motionless when faced with a dangerous wild animal. In most of the studies, it showed that running led to the more fatal outcomes, while remaining motionless resulted in more serious injuries. Running away triggers the animals’ natural and instinctive prey drive, and they will pursue whatever is running from them.

⚠ Scare Them Off

If the animal continues to pursue you after backing away slowly and following all of the steps above, it is time to take more aggressive action. Make yourself appear larger by implementing the arm and jacket trick mentioned above. Then yell and make loud noises directly at the animal. This can sometimes scare them away. Stomp your feet and pick up rocks, sticks and dirt and throw them at the wild animal until they run away. Stand your ground and if they continue to pursue, find anything to use as a weapon and be prepared to fight dirty. This means, if the animal actually attacks you, fight any way necessary. Gouge the eyes, snout, and any other weak spot on the animal. If all else fails, play dead until the animal loses interest in you.

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