What Are Bear Mats?

An unwelcome mat uses nails and plywood placed in front of doorways, windows, sheds and other openings to discourage black bears from entering. Unwelcome mats cause instant pain if a bear attempts to walk over them to reach a door or window but do no permanent damage to the pads of bear's feet if properly constructed.

What smell keeps bears away?

Bears dislike the scent of any pine-scented items, such as pine essential oil. Only use pine oil in bear country as other sweet-scented essential oils such as lemon oil, lavender oil, and orange oil, may attract a bear instead of deterring it.

What is a good bear deterrent?

The 2 most effective bear deterrents are bear spray and noisemakers. Carry both when in bear country. Noisemakers are best used to deter a bear that is at a distance – one that sees you and continues to approach or one that is heading to your camp or settlement.