Once in a great while, a male black bear here or there has been known to behave in a completely different way than the usual fearful black bear-- and turn predator. They are rogues not because they have been fed but because somehow, nature has gone wrong and made them into hunters.

It's VERY rare, but when it happens, it's a sneak attack from behind after stalking the prey-- usually small adults or children. Bobert, you and P-Vine both are small enough. The prey is dragged off the path and fully or partially consumed-- sometimes up in a tree. Fatally. It isn't a mauling, like a defensive bear surprised in an encounter-- it's purposeful hunting. Pairs of humans attacked have usually both died, altho I think I heard of one case where the woman was taken and the man survived.

So...... if you feel like you are being watched, maybe you are. Google around and you will find the info and counter-measures.

~Susan