A Man in His 60s Miraculously Survives Bear Attack... What to Do If You Encounter a Bear

Former Boxer Fights Off Bear in Life-or-Death Struggle
How to Respond When Encountering a Bear Depends on the Situation

In Canada, the story of a man in his 60s who survived a desperate fight after being attacked by a wild bear has been reported. On October 22 (local time), local media outlet CBC shared the story of Joe Pendry, 63, who encountered a mother bear and her two cubs while elk hunting with his wife in British Columbia, Canada, on October 2.

A bear and Joe Pendry who died of sepsis. CBC

Pendry fired his gun at his own leg in an attempt to scare off the approaching bear, but the bear did not stop. As a former boxer, Pendry fought back desperately against the bear. Even as the bear bit his head, he continued to punch the bear's nose repeatedly. Pendry's wife recalled the tense moment, saying, "While my husband was fighting for his life, his lips and part of his scalp were torn, his fingers were severed, and several bones were broken, leaving him with horrific injuries." Despite these severe injuries, Pendry managed to fend off the bear by hitting and biting its ear in a life-or-death struggle.

Afterward, he called 911 and his son for help and was transported to a regional general hospital. Suffering serious injuries including broken nose, cheekbone, both arms, and ribs, he underwent multiple surgeries and is currently recovering. Pendry is also reportedly experiencing symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). His wife said, "He still dreams about the bear," and added, "He may not be able to return to work." A few days after the incident, a grizzly bear that had died of sepsis was found in the area, and DNA analysis confirmed it was the bear that had attacked Pendry.

Meanwhile, as recent reports in Korea have mentioned encounters with bears in the mountains, what should you do if you face a bear in the wild? The appropriate response depends on the situation. If you see a bear from a distance, quietly leave the area. If a bear is watching you from afar, make your presence known by blowing a whistle, or slowly raise your arms above your head to appear larger and encourage the bear to run away.

If you suddenly encounter a bear at close range, slowly back away. Do not approach to take photos or offer food, as this may provoke the bear and increase the risk of an attack. When retreating, always maintain eye contact and back away slowly. Running away quickly with your back turned may trigger the bear's hunting instinct. If attacked by a bear, resist as much as possible. Use trekking poles or a sturdy stick to defend yourself rather than your bare hands, and if resistance is difficult, crouch on the ground and protect your vital areas by wrapping your arms around your neck.