Apparently their back is heavier than their front so they topple head over heel...well, head over paws...
2007-02-06 09:56:58 · 12 answers · asked by Anonymous in Science & Mathematics ➔ Zoology
I've heard this as well - but more specifically with Black Bear. The reason isn't because their back end is heavier, but rather their front legs are shorter. When they get into a chase downhill they trip over their front feet, and end up head over heel.
I don't know whether this is true, and I was tought this only applies to Black bears, not other species (Brown, Grizzly, Polar bears, etc).
If no experts come forward to answer this question, why not send it to the Mythbusters from the Discovery Channel - this seems a question right up their alley, and would make for an interesting episode.
What I do know - is you should never run from a bear. Your reaction should be dependent on what kind of bear. If it's a black bear - stand your ground and try to make yourself look bigger, taller, etc. It may be looking for an easy meal - running triggers the chase instict, but if you appear to be more trouble than your worth - it should leave you alone. Brown bear (Grizz) on the other hand are territorial to extreme - try to play dead.
2007-02-06 12:57:01 · answer #1 · answered by gshprd918 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Its not true that they can't, however if one happens to be chasing you it is the only shot at going faster than the bear you will have. They will out run you on the flat, up a hill, or up an object. So long as you aren't intruding on a mothers den you are not likely to encounter the situation in the first place.
2007-02-06 18:02:05 · answer #2 · answered by Joshua L 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
I've seen lots of footage of bears running both uphill and down. I'm sure if the hill were steep enough thye would likely slide more than run, but I seriously doubt a bear is dumb enough to run headlong down a steep hill.
2007-02-06 18:00:10 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Not true! a bear will run sideways. Trust me I saw an episode when Yogi did it trying to get away after stealing a picnic basket.
2007-02-06 17:59:01 · answer #4 · answered by Kdog 3 · 2⤊ 0⤋
I don't know but,I wouldn't want to find out.I know they can run up a hill pretty fast.
2007-02-06 18:00:18 · answer #5 · answered by jimbobob 4 · 0⤊ 1⤋
i think that they can a do run down hill they can catch you
2007-02-07 10:51:57 · answer #6 · answered by hill bill y 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
ive never heard that thats weird seems like they wouldnt be able to survive with that kind of hinderance
2007-02-06 17:59:24 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 2⤋
why would a bear be on a hill i can see why it would be on a mountain, but a hill! thats too close to human activity!!!
2007-02-06 18:00:04 · answer #8 · answered by joelle 3 · 0⤊ 4⤋
Yeah i think so
2007-02-06 17:58:48 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 2⤋
its true
2007-02-06 17:58:31 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 2⤋