How to avoid animal attacks while out in nature
What to know about Pennsylvania wildlife.
Be aware of wildlife as warm weather draws more people outside.
By Rosanna Wakley
Knightly News Reporter
Pennsylvania is home to a diverse range of animals—some curious, others territorial and a few that can pose danger.
From black bears wandering into campsites to venomous snakes hidden along hiking paths and raccoons that may carry rabies, the potential for a harmful encounter is real, and hikes in the Commonwealth’s plentiful and often vast wild areas can easily bring people face to face with wild animals.
While most wildlife prefers to avoid humans, increasing housing and retail development, and human recreational activity, such as in the warmer months, mean these interactions are happening more frequently.
If you are exploring a wooded trail or simply grilling in your backyard, understanding how to prevent and respond to wildlife encounters is essential not only for your own safety but to ensure these animals remain wild and unharmed.
Among the most concerning are black bears, venomous snakes and rabid raccoons—all capable of harming humans when provoked or approached. Coyotes and bobcats are also being spotted more frequently, especially in rural and suburban areas where development has disrupted natural habitats.
Wildlife you may meet
The Pennsylvania Game Commission (PGC) reports that black bears are widespread throughout the state, especially in the Poconos, Alleghenies and northern forests. They are typically shy but can be dangerous if they associate humans with food. Bears are often drawn to unsecured trash, bird feeders or pet food, especially in campgrounds or residential areas. While most encounters are nonaggressive, a bear may react defensively if it feels threatened or if cubs are nearby. It is important that you always keep your distance, and do not let your guard down, even if the bear seems friendly.
Pennsylvania is home to several venomous snake species: the timber rattlesnake; the Northern copperhead; and the Eastern massasauga, which is smaller and has less potent venom.
Snakes typically are active from April through October. The rattler and the copperhead are naturally reclusive and tend to avoid humans, often hiding beneath rocks, logs or leaves. The Eastern Massasauga is more likely to be found in marshy and swampy areas. All of these snakes can bite when they are surprised, such as by hikers stepping over logs, reaching into brush or accidentally getting too close while on a trail. While these bites are rarely fatal (though a rattlesnake bite can be fatal more often than that of the other two), they can be extremely painful and require immediate medical attention. Experts recommend that people who are bitten by one of these venomous snakes avoid unnecessary movement and seek emergency care as quickly as possible. Wearing boots and watching where you step are simple precautions that can significantly reduce the risk of a bite.
Lane Wintermute, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.
Photo by Tim Vicekrs, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.
Coyotes and bobcats are elusive predators but are increasingly being spotted in rural areas and in expanding suburban locations. Coyotes are found more at a higher concentration in the northern half of the state, though they are common in throughout Pennsylvania, and are live in many areas of South Central Pennsylvania. They are highly adaptable and have expanded their range significantly over the years. Eastern Cumberland County has become a prime coyote-hunting ground. Estimates suggest there are around 100,000 in the state. Coyotes are opportunistic and tend to avoid humans, but they may approach homes in search of food, especially if garbage or pet food is left outside. They have attacked and eaten small pets left unattended.
Bobcats, though solitary and secretive, are also being seen more frequently as development pushes into their habitat. They are the only wild feline species in Pennsylvania and have had a population resurgence. After being protected from hunting and trapping from 1970 to 1999, limited hunting resumed in 2000. During that season, 1,052 bobcats were harvested statewide, indicating a healthy and stable population, according to the game commission.
While attacks on humans are rare for both species, though a bobcat may also prey on small unattended pets left outdoors. If you encounter either animal, stand your ground, make loud noises and back away slowly. Avoid running or turning your back and never attempt to feed or approach wildlife, the game commission advises.
What about wolves?
While gray wolves once roamed Pennsylvania, they were locally extinct from the state by the late 1800s due to habitat loss and hunting. As of now, there are no wild, free-ranging wolf populations in Pennsylvania, according to the Pennsylvania Game Commission and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.
However, some confusion arises because coyotes, which are widespread in the state, can look and behave similarly to wolves. In fact, many Pennsylvania coyotes are “coywolves,” hybrids between western coyotes, gray wolves and domestic dogs. These animals tend to be larger and more robust than western coyotes, and they can resemble small wolves.
It is illegal to own, release or breed wolves or wolf-dog hybrids without special licensing in Pennsylvania. Any sightings reported are usually misidentifications of large coyotes or escaped captive animals.
What about animals that aren’t typically dangerous?
While animals like white-tailed deer, groundhogs and opossums aren’t typically aggressive, they can become dangerous under certain conditions. Deer may charge if startled, particularly during rutting season or when protecting fawns. Groundhogs and opossums, though generally shy and slow to confront, can bite or scratch if cornered or threatened. Likewise, squirrels and chipmunks, while small and seemingly harmless, can carry parasites or diseases and should never be handled, especially by children..
Via U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.
Foxes–red and gray–are also common in Pennsylvania, including in suburban and urban neighborhoods. They are roughly 24 inches long, with up to a 16-inch tail. These nocturnal predators tend to avoid humans, but according to the Pennsylvania Game Commission are opportunistic and may be drawn to unsecured trash, outdoor pet food or backyard chickens. While rare, attacks can happen if a fox feels threatened or has rabies. Infected foxes may behave erratically, appearing unusually aggressive, confused or fearless during the day.
Raccoons and skunks, like foxes, are opportunistic and are among the most frequent carriers of rabies in the state. They may venture into residential areas in search of food and can pose a serious risk if sick or behaving unusually. In all cases, the best approach is to keep a safe distance, never attempt to feed or handle wild animals, and report erratic behavior to local animal control officers. Though these animals are not typically considered dangerous, close contact, especially with those acting abnormally, can pose health and safety risks.
The PGC advises residents to follow these precautions:
- Never attempt to feed or touch wild animals, even if they appear calm or injured.
- Do not rescue baby animals, because their mothers are usually nearby.
- Keep a safe distance and observe quietly.
- Secure gardens and compost to deter foragers.
- Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator, if needed.
Prevention starts with awareness
According to the Pennsylvania Game Commission, the majority of dangerous wildlife encounters occur not because animals seek humans, but because they’ve become accustomed to human food or are startled by sudden, unexpected movement. One of the most effective ways to prevent these incidents is to avoid feeding wildlife, under any circumstances. Feeding wild animals, even unintentionally by leaving food scraps or not securing trash, conditions them to approach people and associate humans with food, increasing the likelihood of aggressive behavior.
To reduce this risk, it’s essential to store trash, pet food and other attractants in bear-proof containers or indoors. The U.S. Department of Agriculture gives tips on how to package food items and what foods’ scent can reduce the chances of attracting wild animals. When hiking or spending time outdoors, making noise is also an important safety measure; talking, clapping or wearing bear bells can alert wildlife to your presence and give them a chance to retreat before you’re too close. In addition, always keep pets on a leash. Unleashed dogs may chase or provoke wildlife, putting the pet and the pet owner at risk.
From remote forests to suburban backyards, Pennsylvania’s wildlife can be fascinating and hazardous. Awareness, respectful distance and preparation remain the most effective ways to stay safe when sharing space with these creatures.
Tips when encountering wildlife
- Black bears: Do not run. Make yourself look bigger and speak loudly. If attacked, fight back using objects or fists.
- Venomous snakes: Move away calmly. Never try to catch or kill a snake. If bitten, keep the wounded area still to avoid increased circulation and get help immediately.
- Coyotes and bobcats: Stand tall, wave your arms and make noise. Do not turn your back or run.
- Raccoons or skunks: Avoid any that approach you. If they appear disoriented or aggressive, call local authorities.
- Typically nondangerous wildlife: Do not touch or feed. Contact a wildlife expert, if needed.
These simple but crucial steps help ensure safer experiences for people and for wildlife in Pennsylvania’s natural areas. You should contact the Pennsylvania Game Commission to report any dangerous, injured or orphaned wildlife, and visit the commission’s website to learn more. See other resources, below.
Wildlife emergency contacts in Pennsylvania
📞 Pennsylvania Game Commission Dispatch Center
1-833-PGC-WILD (1-833-742-9453)
Available 24/7 statewide
🔍 Find a Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator
🌐 More Info and Wildlife Safety Tips
Comment or story idea? Contract [email protected].
Edited by media-club co-adviser and blog editor Professor Michael Lear-Olimpi.
