Here are some statistics from the State of Alaska:

“From 1900-1985, only 20 people have died in bear attacks in Alaska.
From 1975-1985, 19 people in Alaska were killed by dogs”.

Most of these statistics are for blacks. The larger grizzly has a reputation for ferocity not deserved. Forget about campfire tales and Hollywood movies about ursa horribiles, there is only one proven incident of a brown-toklat-grizzley stalking and killing man. I know of several hunter incidents that could be construed as stalking, but usually these actions are self-defense, or protection of a cub (would you go to extremes if your child was threatened?).

My “closest encounter” with a ‘griz’ was topping out on a barren lichen covered wilderness hill, and running smack dab into a 1,000 pounder, with hump on his back. We both were so surprised that neither moved for what seemed many minutes. He stood up on his hinds, 10 foot tall, to take a better look (a good sign, as his ears weren’t flattened to his head in an agitated manner.

I think I said, “ Well, Hi!” and with that he turned to drop to all fours and run away. I have to say it was the most beautiful ‘living’ sight I have ever seen in my whole life. His loose pelt flowed in waves as the strong muscles drove him away, down across a creek, and up again over another hill …. faster than a horse can run. My son … a know-it-all college student at the time…estimated his speed to be 35 miles per hour. (continued next page)