National Park Service Hired The Perfect Social Media Person Who Created A Hilarious PSA On What To Do In Case Of A Bear Encounter
A bear encounter is already enough to ruin a hike, but the National Park Service found a way to make the warning memorable. Their latest PSA mixes practical bear safety with the kind of dry humor that keeps people reading instead of scrolling past.
The post walks visitors through what not to do around wildlife, while also poking fun at the worst possible survival instincts, like running, climbing trees, or sacrificing the slowest friend in the group. It fits right in with the agency’s social media style, which has turned safety reminders into shareable content.
Keep going for the full bear safety thread and the reactions it sparked.
"Bear resting on a log thinking bear things"
They start off strong with a funny twist on a clear message
The National Park Service wastes no time getting to the joke.
Then they dive into the nitty-gritty
They outline some simple tricks for when you come across a bear in the wild. Move away slowly and sideways so you can keep an eye on the bear and not trigger its instincts to chase prey.
They continue with crucial information about black bears and grizzlies: they climb trees! So, trying to evade one of those bears by climbing a tree is not a great idea.
And of course, don't push a friend, even if the friendship has run its course. Bears usually just want to be left alone, so if you identify yourself as a human and not prey, they'll typically leave you alone.
That last line lands exactly the way it should.
The best way to let them know you're human is to use your voice since apparently bears don't care about our opposable thumbs or ability to wave. And to note, while extremely intimidating, a standing bear is usually only curious, not threatening.
And a silly send-off to close out the thread!
The National Park Service previously released this humorous poster
This isn't the first time they've highlighted the importance of friendship
People clearly appreciated the mix of warning and wit.
This chaotic contrast echoes a tragic black bear confrontation in California.
Facebook users loved their use of humor alongside information
Freddie just goes out of his way to stay out of their way
Bears are increasingly common in some suburbs
Being able to bear witness is a treasure
Matt shares his thanks, as the "bait" of his friend group
Their dad obviously had outdated advice
That kind of response is exactly what the post was aiming for.
NPS DOES keep the world a happy place
Appreciation for the effort that goes into educating and amusing
Erin shared what we're all thinking
The comments kept the same playful energy going.
Round of applause for their social media team
Same, Penelope, same
Dory, please don't sacrifice your friends
Employing bear safety tips before this post!
No matter which National Park you explore, visitors should be prepared for any wildlife encounter.
While wild animals can act unexpectedly, attacks are rare.
The clever social media specialist also invites readers to check out more general bear tips here. You can find more of the National Park Service’s signature sense of humor on their official website, where they share a fun collection of safety graphics.
Share this with a friend you definitely wouldn’t, or would, you do you, knock over after running into a bear.
For another Yellowstone scare, see how a family of black bears chased tourists.
Share this article:
