Keeping the critters away

[kroot]

So how much truth is there to the universal fear of fire that is so often pointed out in the movies? Why would all animals be afraid of fire anyway?

Anecdotally, my dog is afraid of fire. But she's also afraid of cats, horses, rain, swimming, and brushes, so this might not be the most relevant data point.

[IRONFISH45]

- I cook in one area, hang in a different place.
- I wear clean night clothes.
- Never, Ever have food in my hammock.
- In Oregon and SW Washington my dogs keep the coons away, probably bears. Were we live in B.C. dogs entice the bears, bark at the Magpies & Ravens.
- We hang food, however bears are clever, if mom can't reach cubs are sometimes used to grab the goodies. Bears amaze me with their creativeness.

A couple of years ago we had Ricky Racoon steal a short case of soda. From us while I was sitting about 3 ft. Away, with my back to the soda. The situation was so funny, we just let Rickyhave Racoon have one of the cans he dropped.

Anyway, no candy bars, granola or other things that might be considered in or around our sleeping spot. Be aware of perfumes or aftershave may also attract the unwanted, party crasher.

[LuvmyBonnet]

If there's not food around, you and your gear will be left alone by the animals.

Not always true. Ask Silversurfer about his folding saw that was takin by a squirrel. I have squirrels try to steal stuff sacks. Sometimes the squirrels don't care if it's food. I think squirrels just like to steal stuff!

[cmoulder]

In addition to the usual thieves, in the Adirondacks the pine martens can be quite brazen.

Below is a photo of the actual pine marten that almost stole a rather large bag of food from me by unzipping a pack pocket. I gave chase just in the nick of time and he dropped it. But then he had the audacity to come back and was hissing at us (group of 4 people!), demanding a handout!

pine marten.jpg

[Halfed]

What a cute!