Wildlife + Altitude Tips

Mountain Lions and Bears

• Stay inside before dusk and dawn: Closely supervise children and pets whenever they play outdoors. • Noise: Make lots of noise if you come and go during the times mountain lions are most active - dusk and dawn. • If You Meet a Mountain Lion: Stay Calm. Stop, and back away slowly while facing the lion. Appear larger, raise your arms, open your jacket, pick your children up so that they don’t panic and run. Speak firmly and if the lion behaves aggressively, throw stones, branches, or whatever you can without crouching down or turning your back. If the lion attacks, FIGHT BACK. • Keep Your Camp Clean: Store your food and garbage properly at all times. Keep your tent and sleeping bag free of food smells. Tents should be placed 100 yards from cooking/eating area. Clothes worn while cooking should be stored away. Store garbage in your trunk and pack it out at the end of your stay. • Store Your Food and Toiletries Safely: All coolers and toiletries should be stored in your trunk or suspended from a tree at least 10’ from the ground and 4’ out from the trees. Don’t underestimate the ingenuity of a bear! • If You Meet a Black Bear: Stay Calm. Stop, and back away slowly while facing the bear - avoid eye contact.

Do not make any sudden movements. Speak softly and try to show no fear. If the bear attacks, FIGHT BACK.

High Altitude Sickness

What are the effects of High Altitude? At high altitude everyone is affected to some degree. The effects vary among individuals and vary widely. The main difference between high altitude and sea level are decreased oxygen density and decreased humidity or moisture content in the ambient air.

A sudden change from sea level to high altitude can produce the common symptoms of nausea, headache, insomnia, diarrhea, restlessness, nosebleed, shortness of breath, and “air-hunger.” Some people experience palpitations or fast heart, nasal congestion, coughing, increased gassiness, fatigue beyond normal expectations, and intolerance to any exertion. If high altitude symptoms progress, more shortness of breath and increased coughing and pulmonary edema (fluid accumulating in the lungs) may occur requiring medical attention and possibly hospitalization.

What can be done to adapt to High Altitude? The initial symptoms should disappear as your body adjusts to the lowered oxygen content and dryness. This may take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks depending on what you eat, drink, and do. Aside from the amount of fluids you need to drink, moderation is key to coping with altitude. Eat lightly and avoid alcohol and caffeine for the first 48 to 72 hours. Drink plenty of water, flavored water, and green

Wildlife + Altitude Tips

teas. Avoid drinking too much soda or juice and steer clear of energy drinks and electrolyte based drinks. Also, steaming up your hotel room by running the shower before you go to sleep may aid in easier breathing.

Be sure to keep physical exertion to an absolute minimum the first day! Over-exertion before your body can adapt to the lower oxygen and dryness can result in more severe and persistent symptoms. Take a nap when sleepy and get a good night’s sleep after activity. If you experience any of the symptoms that were mentioned, you may be experiencing an oxygen deficit and a day of rest is highly recommended. If your symptoms do not improve with rest or new symptoms develop, please call a doctor or practitioner.

If you are over 35 and planning strenuous exercise in high altitude, have a history of heart circulatory, lung disease, respiratory infections, pneumonia, or pregnant, please seek advice from your doctor prior to traveling. Infants are extremely susceptible to altitude sickness, as are pets, and it is recommended that children under 3 years old, pets, and women in their third trimester do not go above 10,000’.

Wildlife Watching

• Blend into the animal’s surroundings - In return you’ll be treated to a wildlife show that makes your heart pound and senses hum. • Fade into the wood work - Wear natural colors, unscented lotions, remove glasses, and walk softly. • Let animals be themselves - Do not share your food,

“save” baby animals, or throw objects. • Stick to the sidelines - Use binoculars or zoom lenses and give nests a wide berth. • Come to your senses - Focus and expand your attention, stop, look, and listen. • Be easy to be with - Relax, make yourself as small and unassuming as possible. • Think like an animal - When does it feed, nap, bathe, and drink? Dusk and dawn are usually good bets.