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 Of all the wildlife species found in the north woods, the black bear is possibly the most photographed, sought after and misunderstood. Seeing a black bear is one of the most memorable experiences of a visit to the Copper Harbor area. Bears are very intelligent and adept at surviving in relative close contact with humans. They have color vision, acute hearing and a keen sense of smell. They adapt quickly to their environment and tend to be solitary. Bears are fast runners, climb trees, swim, and are amazingly dexterous in breaking into cars and camps when tempted by food.
Generally, visitors and backwoods campers have little to fear from bears. Their first instinct is to avoid contact with humans. Confrontations usually occur when getting between a sow and her cubs or a chance meeting while berry picking along a back road. Loud noise and an unobstructed path of escape are usually all a bear requires to depart.
Encounters with black bears are not common. Seeing one is evidence that we still can enjoy wilderness areas large enough to accommodate these wide- ranging animals. Keep a couple simple rules in mind:
1. Please don't feed the bears or leave food out where it will attract them. Campers should take precautions to make sure their cooking utensils, food supplies and garbage aren't left out where the scent will lure animals looking for a free lunch.
2. While some wildlife may appear to be "tame" and accustomed to visitors, remember that these are not pets or trained animals. Approaching too close could be interpreted as a sign of aggression, especially when they are protecting their young. Enjoy our wildlife at a distance. It is safer and easier for both you and the animals.
A historical note worth mentioning, Copper Harbor and many visitors have fond memories of "The Bear Pit". In fact, the Bear Pit was actually the town's landfill. The refuse was quite tasty as far as our black bears were concerned, and each day at sundown, the bears would emerge from the woods to dine on the human race's leftovers. The scene resembled a drive-in theater, with cars parked in rows around the main viewing area.
In the early 1990's, environmental changes took place throughout Michigan and unlicensed landfills such as Copper Harbor's were required to shut down and cap off the sites. And the Copper Harbor Bear Pit is now just a colorful chapter in the town's history.
Deprived of their favorite fast food joint, the confused and disappointed bears gave residents considerable trouble at first, showing up at the back doors of local restaurants looking for handouts. Gradually, the bears have become accustomed to finding their food sources in the woods, where berries and other staples in their natural diet are normally in ready supply. But, like humans, many of them still have a hard time resisting junk food. We ask your cooperation in removing the temptation at your camp and picnic sites. PLEASE do not feed the bears.
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