New York – Frequent Bear Activity – Fingerboard Shelter
New York
Bear Activity
Alert
Due to improper food storage by campers, the Fingerboard Shelter has a history of black bears approaching hikers in search of food. To reduce the risk of attracting black bears, campers should never leave food, coolers, or backpacks unattended, especially when sleeping. Food preparation and cooking should be undertaken away from where people sleep. When finished, all food should be secured in bear canisters or hung on cables provided and waste carried out. Bears have a very good sense of smell, so food and other items with a strong scent, like toothpaste and deodorant, should not be stored in tents. Should a bear approach you, make loud noises and slowly back away. Do not run. Never get between cubs and an adult bear.
All bear encounters should be reported to the Park Police at (845) 786-2781. Also please fill out an A.T. Bear Incident form.
For more information on how to store you food and preventing bear conflicts see the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation page on Reducing Human-Bear Conflicts.
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