At 08:42 PM 8/16/99 -0400, Robert Woodard wrote: >> Has anybody ever heard of a kayak being opened by a bear >> looking for treats? > >Nah, but I have heard they like to try out the different models while >kayaker's are asleep: | I wonder if bears prefer feathered or unfeathered paddles. Numerous scientific studies have shown that bears like unfeathered paddles since they don't cause the bear to gag as much. However, newer studies are investigating the possible health effects of carbon fiber, fiberglass, and other man made materials in the bear's diet. The EPA, USFS, along with the Coast Guard and local authorities are investigating the possibility of requiring paddlers in bear country to use wooden, unfeathered paddles. It is thought that paddlers using wooden unfeathered paddles are much slower than paddlers using non wood feathered paddles thus allowing the bears an easier hunting opportunites. This seems to help not only the digestion of the bears but also promotes good dental hygene since the paddles make for good after dinner tooth picks. If you would like references to the studies mentioned above, check out Dr. Inverborne's web site. I have forgotten the address at the moment. Maybe the Good Dr. I can fill us in on the latest research. Hope this helps..... 8-) DanMcCartyWhoPaddlesWithAnUnfeatheredPlasticThingyPaddleAndNotInBearCountry,Yet.... *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List Submissions: paddlewise_at_lists.intelenet.net Subscriptions: paddlewise-request_at_lists.intelenet.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
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