As a seasoned outdoor writer and adventurer with over a decade spent exploring the American wilderness, I’ve heard countless tales around campfires. But few are as consistently recounted, and often misunderstood, as the legend of Old Groaner. Specifically, the stories surrounding the Old Groaner bear in the White Mountain National Forest of New Hampshire. This isn’t just a spooky story; it’s a crucial case study in bear behavior, human-wildlife conflict, and the importance of responsible recreation. I’m here to break down the facts, dispel myths, and provide practical advice for staying safe in bear country, drawing on expertise from organizations like the National Park Service (nps.gov) and Leave No Trace (leavenotrace.org).
The legend of Old Groaner began in the 1980s and 90s, centered around a large, habituated black bear that frequented the Garfield Ridge area of the White Mountain National Forest. Hikers reported a bear that would actively beg for food, and, uniquely, vocalize a deep, guttural “groan” when approached or denied a handout. This unusual behavior, combined with the bear’s size and boldness, quickly cemented its place in local lore. It’s important to understand that Old Groaner wasn’t inherently aggressive; it was conditioned. Years of receiving food from hikers had taught it that humans equaled easy meals.
The bear’s story took a tragic turn when it began breaking into cabins and vehicles in search of food. Ultimately, after repeated attempts at relocation and behavioral modification failed, Old Groaner was euthanized in 2002 by the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department. The story serves as a stark reminder: a fed bear is a dead bear.
Habituation occurs when wildlife loses its natural fear of humans. This happens when animals repeatedly encounter people without negative consequences. In Old Groaner’s case, the consistent provision of food removed the natural aversion to humans that is vital for both the bear’s safety and the safety of visitors. The USDA Forest Service (fs.usda.gov) emphasizes that even unintentional feeding – leaving food unattended, improperly storing garbage – can contribute to habituation.
While Old Groaner is no longer with us, the lessons learned from its story are more relevant than ever. Black bears are found throughout much of the United States, and encounters are becoming increasingly common as human development encroaches on their habitat. Here’s how to stay safe and prevent another “Old Groaner” situation:
This is non-negotiable. Bears have an incredible sense of smell and will relentlessly pursue any food source. Here are your options:
Remember to store all scented items – food, toiletries, trash – properly. This includes toothpaste, deodorant, sunscreen, and even lip balm.
Bears generally prefer to avoid humans. Making noise while hiking – talking, singing, using a bear bell – can alert bears to your presence and give them time to move away. Be particularly vigilant in areas with dense vegetation or near streams, where visibility is limited. Pay attention to your surroundings and look for signs of bear activity, such as tracks, scat, or claw marks on trees.
Encountering a bear can be frightening, but knowing how to react can significantly increase your safety. Here’s a breakdown:
The National Park Service (nps.gov/subjects/bears/safety.htm) offers comprehensive bear safety guidelines.
Staying safe isn’t just about protecting yourself; it’s about protecting the bears. Here’s how you can contribute to responsible recreation and prevent the creation of another habituated bear like Old Groaner bear:
The seven principles of Leave No Trace (lnt.org/7-principles/) are essential for minimizing your impact on the environment. These include:
If you encounter a bear, especially one that exhibits unusual behavior (like approaching humans or displaying a lack of fear), report it to the local land management agency (National Park Service, USDA Forest Service, state wildlife agency). Your report can help them monitor bear activity and take appropriate action.
Share your knowledge of bear safety and responsible recreation with others. Encourage your friends, family, and fellow hikers to follow best practices. The more people who understand the importance of protecting bears, the less likely we are to see another situation like the one with Old Groaner.
The story of Old Groaner is a cautionary tale, but it’s also a call to action. It reminds us that we share the wilderness with incredible creatures, and that our actions have consequences. By practicing bear safety, embracing Leave No Trace principles, and educating others, we can ensure that future generations can enjoy the beauty and wonder of the American wilderness – and that bears can thrive in their natural habitat. I encourage you to explore further resources on bear safety and responsible recreation before your next adventure. Consider taking a bear awareness course offered by local organizations or land management agencies.
For more information on backcountry meal planning to minimize scents, check out our guide to backcountry meal planning. And if you're planning a group hike, be sure to review our sample outdoor event waiver to protect yourself and your participants.