94 FLESH-EATERS 



profound contempt, and frequently when it was used to 

 annoy him, the user met a tragic fate. I believe that Griz- 

 zlies have killed and maimed a larger number of hunters than 

 all other bears of the world combined. 



Down to the advent of the breech-loader, the Grizzly 

 was a bold, aggressive, and highly dangerous animal. When 

 attacked, he would charge his enemies with great ferocity, 

 striking terrible blows with paws that were like sledge-ham- 

 mers armed with huge hooks of steel. The combined swift- 

 ness and strength with which any large bear can strike must 

 be seen or felt to be fully appreciated. 



I have made many observations on the temper of the 

 Grizzly Bear, and am convinced that naturally the disposi- 

 tion of this reputedly savage creature is rather peaceful and 

 good-natured. At the same time, however, no animal is 

 more prompt to resent an affront or injury, or punish an 

 offender. The Grizzly temper is defensive, not aggressive; 

 and unless the animal is cornered, or thinks he is cornered, 

 he always flees from man. 



Either in captivity or freedom, the Grizzly responds to 

 fair treatment as well as any well-armed wild animal ever 

 does, and far better than any other species with which I am 

 personally acquainted. In the Yellowstone Park, where for 

 several years past all bears have been fully protected, both 

 the Grizzly and black bears now live in close touch with 

 man, rarely breaking faith with him. Although they fre- 

 quently visit the hotels, and steal food from the wagons and 

 camps of tourists, I believe no bear has yet broken faith with 

 the Government by molesting either his human neighbors or 



