Quick Answer
To identify fresh bear sign, look for tracks with a smooth, rounded edge, and a heel pad that is at least 2 inches wide. Recent digging or rooting of grass and soil can also indicate recent bear activity. Check for any scat or fur caught in vegetation.
Fresh Tracks and Sign
In Alaska, brown bears often leave tracks with a distinctive “V” shape formed by the two heel pads. When inspecting tracks, note the depth and impression, as fresh tracks will be deeper and more defined. Look for the edges of the tracks to be smooth and rounded, indicating recent movement. The size of the track can also be an indicator of the bear’s age and sex, with larger tracks generally indicating older, male bears.
Digging and Rooting
Brown bears are known to dig and root in search of berries, nuts, and other edible plants. When inspecting an area, look for recently dug or rooted ground, which can be identified by the presence of freshly turned soil and torn vegetation. If the digging is recent, it can be identified by the presence of fresh soil and a lack of regrowth or vegetation regrowth around the digging area.
Additional Clues
In addition to tracks and digging, other signs of fresh bear activity can include scat, hair caught in vegetation, and the presence of torn or pulled branches. Scat can be identified by its shape, size, and color, and can be found in areas where the bear has fed or traveled. Hair caught in vegetation can be a sign of a bear’s presence, as it often tears its own fur when climbing or digging.
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