Bear Bells

The National Park Rangers are advising hikers in Glacier National Park and other Rocky Mountain parks to be alert for bears and take extra precautions to avoid an encounter. They advise park visitors to wear little bells on their clothes so they make noise when hiking. The bell noise allows bears to hear them coming from a distance and not be startled by a hiker accidentally sneaking up on them. This might cause a bear to charge. Visitors should also carry a pepper spray can just in case a bear is encountered. Spraying the pepper into the air will irritate the bear's sensitive nose and it will run away. It is also a good idea to keep an eye out for fresh bear scat so you have an idea if bears are in the area. People should be able to recognize the difference between black bear and grizzly bear scat. Black bear droppings are smaller and often contain berries, leaves, and possibly bits of fur. Grizzly bear droppings tend to contain small bells and smell of pepper.

 

Now that my funny joke of the day is out of the way. Ella and I did partake in a little arts and crafts project of making bear bells. I’m not really counting on our little necklaces saving our lives. I think the general loudness created by two little girls and my constant yapping will probably frighten the bears long before they hear the jingle of our bells. But, it was a fun little project for a little girl who is starting to get into jewelry. We picked out glow-in-the-dark beads, and assortment of bells and some cute bear buttons for Ella’s necklace. Ella’s favorite part was picking out buttons, she was amazed by the different sizes, shapes and colors to choose from. Now when we go to a store, she asks to buy buttons!

Ella liked helping. The act of stringing beads is still a little advanced for her, but picking out beads and bells was quite fun. As was throwing beads and bells as her toddler-self started to show through. Ella likes to wear her necklace as a sash or belt – but hey…why not? It’s all about the accessories!

We’re almost all set for our big Montana vacation! Packing is slowly starting. Reservations set. This will be Lily’s first flight and Ella’s twenty-somethingith. And of course, bear bells are assembled!