Why Does Playing Dead Work On Bears?

You may have heard that one of the ways to survive from a bear attack is by pretending to die or play dead in front of the bear. When you are in a jungle and suddenly you encounter a big wild grizzly, you will probably be panic since there is a high probability that the bear will attack you right away. 

However, you don’t need to be feared, you can actually trick the bear by playing dead. Once you play dead, the bear will stop chasing and attacking you. This method has been practiced by many survivors and it is proven to be helpful. But why does it work this way? Why won’t the bear attack human who plays dead?

Here's why.

Bear thinks you are no longer a threat

When you are about to be attacked by a ferocious bear and you play dead immediately, then the bear will think that you are a dead being. The bear will then ignore you since you are no longer considered as a threat for the bear. The bear will think that you are dead and a threat no more for the bear.

Bears distinguish threats through their prey's behavior. However, after the bears think you are dead, they will feel safe and leave you alone. Soon after the bear forgets you, you can slowly get back up and run away as far and fast as possible from the spot but make sure the bear is far enough from you before you run because the bear may still remain waiting whether there is still a threat around him or not.

Different bear type different action

However, be careful that this method of escaping does not always work on every bear. If you meet a grizzly bear, then this method can help you since a grizzly bear will only attack to defend its territory and cubs. It is different to the case of black bears who will not attack you in order to defend their territory but because they really want to eat you.

Luckily, there are rare cases found regarding black bear attack. Therefore, if you are attacked by a black bear fight him back is the best solution. You can use pepper spray or run away if it is possible. Playing dead may not help in this situation.

Now you know the reason why the bear does not attack you when you play dead. Not every pretense is bad.