DIET | DETECTIVE^®

The best advice before packing up for a wilderness hike of any length is to check with the ranger station. Workers there can tell you whether or not there are any critter concerns you should beware of in that given region. Beyond that, here's a primer for what to do, and not do, when you come across creatures great and small.

Bees
You've probably come across bees hundreds of times before, but you should still pay attention to them on the trails, especially if you're allergic to their venom. Not all bees are created equal. Africanized bees have migrated to many of the country's areas in recent years. They are a particularly aggressive species prone to attacking en masse - even killing, according to Natasha Kline, wildlife biologist for Suguaro National Park in Tucson, Arizona.

The single bee
If you run into one bee on the trail, you don't have to turn and run the other way, but you should pay attention if you start to see more bees in that area - it could be a sign that you are near a hive. Bees generally do not want to sting because after they do, they die. They will, however, defend their hive if they feel it is threatened. If you notice a bee intentionally knocking up against you, take that as a sign of aggression and be aware that you may be near a hive, if not yet near other bees. Another thing to realize is that bees like nice-smelling things. Keep your fragrances to a minimum if you plan to be out in the wild for the day. If you are allergic to bee stings, one is enough to kill you so don't leave home without your Epipen to administer an epinephrine shot if stung.

The swarm of bees
If you come across a swarm of bees flying overhead, just stand still and wait for them to pass. Swarms, unless defending their hive, are just scouting for a new place for their hive. Still, you should keep your distance, and let them on their way.

The bee hive
While cartoon characters are forever looking for honey inside of hives, you should never approach a beehive. Bees are very sensitive to vibration and sound. Simply by walking by the hive, you could agitate them and send them into defensive mode before you see the first bee coming. If you do notice a number of bees in an area, turn around and walk the other way.

The attack
If you are attacked by a swarm of bees, you should turn and run in the opposite direction. Run in as straight a line as possible to put as much distance between you and the swarm as possible. Africanized bees have been known to chase people for up to half a mile, Kline says. And that myth about diving into water? They've also been known to wait for you to surface, Kline says.

If you are stung
A bee's stinger is like a syringe through which the venom is transported to your system. Never grab the stinger at the top as that may push more venom into your system. Instead, take a credit card or stiff edge and try to flick the stinger out where it's attached to your skin.

Snakes
Chances are, a snake won't bite you unless you inadvertently stick your hand into a rock crag or rummage through leaves, rocks or logs on the ground where they are resting. A number of venomous snakes inhabit wilderness areas, but you likely will not come across them in the day unless they are sunning on a rock. Avoid the temptation to see how close you can get and heed the signs they may send off. If you hear a rattlesnake, or see a snake before you make contact, back off and get out of the way. If you are bitten, walk calmly to the nearest phone and call for 911 immediately. If you're not near help, locate a park ranger or guide. You especially want to seek assistance since you might not know what bit you.

Mountain lions
What's the best thing to do in the face of a mountain lion? Bluff. That's right; make yourself look as big as you can, stand tall with your arms spread over your head and yell with as much force as you can muster as you face him. Do not turn your back or run. Lions are cats and they like to chase things.

Bears
Black bears
If you fall into a black bear encounter, you can bluff your way out it, too. Make yourself look big, yell really loud and if they do make contact with you, fight them tooth and nail.

Grizzly bears
You are no match for a grizzly bear. If you do run into one, make yourself small and play dead. Try to be as unnoticeable as possible.

The key with all bears is to make sure you don't surprise them. This can be avoided by yelling, "hey bear" as you turn corners or approach tall grasses or water sources. If they hear you coming, they'll likely be gone by the time you get there.

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