Bear 101: How To Avoid Getting Mauled By A Grizzly In Yellowstone

09:45

August 22, 2016

Peter O'Dowd

Kerry Gunther, Yellowstone National Park's bear biologist, has been working with the park's Grizzly population for more than three decades. (Peter O'Dowd/Here & Now)

Only eight people have been killed by Grizzly bears since the inception of Yellowstone National Park more than 100 years ago. But the park says it averages about one attack per year.

As the population of the iconic bear rebounds in the west, the park’s bear biologist is trying to tell campers that there are ways to protect yourself in bear country.

Nic Patrick was attacked by a Grizzly bear three years ago outside Cody, Wyoming. (Peter O'Dowd/Here & Now) — Nic Patrick was attacked by a Grizzly bear three years ago outside Cody, Wyoming. (Courtesy of Penny Preston)

Park rangers suggest carrying bear spray in Yellowstone to protect from an attack. (Peter O'Dowd/Here & Now)

This segment aired on August 22, 2016.