#18: Beware of the Bear
When you’re out camping and you hear rustling in the bushes, it’s natural to assume you’re encountering a large, potentially dangerous animal like a bear or moose. However, before you start panicking, remember that the reality can be quite surprising. More often than not, the source of those nocturnal disturbances is likely to be something less imposing, such as a skunk, beaver, or porcupine.
These smaller creatures are known for their often unobtrusive movements and nocturnal habits, which can make them seem stealthy in the wilderness. Meanwhile, bears, moose, and other larger animals may move with surprising quietness. So, while it’s always wise to exercise caution in the wild, don’t be too quick to attribute every sound to the most fearsome creatures; sometimes, it’s the more diminutive forest residents making their nightly rounds.