The Shiretoko Peninsula is an area where brown bears live at a high density. Of course, encounters can also occur while cycling. Encountering a brown bear does not necessarily mean immediate danger, but if you are unlucky, you could be attacked by one. Cyclists are asked to enjoy nature while paying attention to the following points. (Incidentally, there have been cases in Shiretoko of cyclists being chased by brown bears, but so far there have been no cases of actual attacks.)
1.Brown bears are timid animals
Most brown bears are afraid of humans. When they notice a human approaching, in most cases the bear will flee. Making noise with a bell or similar is considered effective for alerting brown bears to human presence, but for bears that have become habituated to people, the sound of a bell does not work. Bicycles produce unfamiliar sounds to brown bears—such as chain noise and brake noise—so they are thought to have a certain degree of bear-deterrent effect. On windy or rainy days, sounds are harder to hear, and on foggy days humans are slower to spot brown bears, increasing the likelihood of a close-range encounter.
2.Brown bears can run at speeds of 50 km/h or more
When a brown bear approaches, it is often a “bluff charge” intended to drive you away, so actual attacks are rare. However, if a bear seriously decides to chase you, it can run at speeds of 50 km/h or more, so even racing downhill at full speed you may not be able to escape. If you encounter a brown bear, the most important thing is not to put it into attack mode. Even a bear that appears calm can suddenly attack. It is especially dangerous when cubs are nearby or when the bear is feeding. Never approach. Taking photos at close range is strictly prohibited. Randomly shouting to threaten the bear is also dangerous. Quietly observe its behaviour and gradually increase the distance. There is no such thing as a guaranteed “safe distance,” but it is best to stay at least 50 metres away.
3. Bear around the curve!
When speeding downhill, it is possible that a brown bear is just around the curve. The bear may be startled by the sudden appearance of a bicycle and attack. Even if it is not a brown bear, it could be an Ezo deer or a parked car. When rounding a blind curve, ride at a speed that gives you enough time and space to avoid whatever might be ahead, while keeping in mind that “there might be something up ahead.” Since humans are entering the brown bears’ habitat, please enjoy your sightseeing while being considerate of the bears!
Please also refer to the Shiretoko Foundation’s “How to Deal with Brown Bears”!
Brown bears in Shiretoko
