Bart Schleyer Remains & Bear Scat: A Wilderness Survival Guide

The story of Bart Schleyer is a chilling reminder of the unpredictable nature of the wilderness. In 1996, Schleyer, an experienced survivalist, tragically perished in the California wilderness after attempting a solo winter trek. While the circumstances surrounding his death are complex and debated, the case highlights the importance of preparedness, sound judgment, and a deep understanding of the environment. And, unfortunately, it’s often linked to a disturbing question that surfaces in online survival forums: is bear poop edible? Let me be unequivocally clear: it is not. This article will delve into the Bart Schleyer case, explain how to identify bear scat, and definitively explain why consuming it is a dangerous and potentially fatal mistake. We’ll also cover essential wilderness survival principles to help you stay safe on your adventures.

The Tragic Case of Bart Schleyer: Lessons from a Lost Survivalist

Bart Schleyer was a highly regarded survival instructor and author. He believed in pushing his limits and testing his skills. His final journey involved a solo winter hike in the Sierra Nevada mountains, a notoriously challenging environment. He intended to demonstrate his self-reliance and survival expertise. However, a series of unfortunate events, including a blizzard and potential miscalculations, led to his demise. His remains weren’t discovered until years later, and the details surrounding his death continue to be analyzed by survival experts. (Outside Online provides a detailed account of the case).

The Schleyer case isn’t about whether he tried to eat bear scat – that’s a myth that’s gained traction online. It’s about the dangers of underestimation, the power of the elements, and the critical need for meticulous planning. It underscores that even experienced outdoorspeople can succumb to the wilderness if they aren’t adequately prepared and make poor decisions. The story serves as a cautionary tale, prompting us to re-evaluate our own preparedness and respect for the natural world.

Identifying Bear Scat: What Does it Look Like?

Before we address the question of edibility (again, do not eat bear scat), it’s crucial to know how to identify it. Knowing what bear scat looks like can help you determine bear activity in an area, which is vital for your safety. Here’s what to look for:

• Size: Bear scat is typically larger than that of most other animals. It can range from a few inches to over a foot in length, depending on the bear’s size and diet.
• Shape: The shape varies depending on the bear’s diet. If the bear has been eating berries, the scat will be more cylindrical and loose. If it’s been eating meat or bones, it will be more formed and may contain bone fragments or hair.
• Contents: You’ll often see undigested food items like berries, seeds, hair, bones, and insect parts.
• Color: Color also varies. It can be black, brown, reddish, or even bluish depending on the berries consumed.
• Location: Bears often defecate in prominent locations, such as along trails, on logs, or near water sources. They may even intentionally leave scat as a form of communication.

The National Park Service offers excellent resources on bear safety, including information on identifying bear signs, including scat.

Distinguishing Bear Scat from Other Animal Waste

It’s important to differentiate bear scat from that of other animals. Here’s a quick comparison:

Animal	Scat Characteristics
Bear	Large, variable shape & color, often contains undigested food.
Deer	Small, pellet-like, dark brown.
Mountain Lion	Segmented, often covered with leaves or dirt, may contain hair.
Coyote/Fox	Small, twisted, often contains hair and bones.

Why You Should Never Eat Bear Poop: A Health Hazard

Let’s address the elephant (or bear) in the room. The idea that bear scat is edible is a dangerous myth perpetuated by some extreme survival scenarios. It is absolutely false and potentially deadly. Here’s why:

1. Parasites: Bear scat is teeming with parasites, including roundworms, tapeworms, and other intestinal parasites. These can cause severe illness, including debilitating digestive problems, organ damage, and even death.
2. Bacteria: It contains harmful bacteria like E. coli, Salmonella, and Campylobacter, which can lead to severe food poisoning.
3. Viruses: Bears can carry viruses that are transmissible to humans through their feces.
4. Undigested Toxins: Bears consume a wide variety of plants, some of which may be toxic. These toxins may not be fully digested and can remain in the scat, posing a risk to anyone who consumes it.
5. Nutritional Value: Even if it were safe, bear scat offers minimal nutritional value. The nutrients have already been absorbed by the bear. You’d be consuming mostly waste products.

The USDA Forest Service (Forest Service Safety Guidelines) emphasizes the importance of safe food handling and avoiding contaminated sources, which includes anything as obviously dangerous as animal waste.

The Myth of Emergency Consumption & the Risks of Autointoxication

Some proponents of eating bear scat argue it’s a last resort in a true survival situation. This is a profoundly misguided belief. The risks far outweigh any potential benefit. The idea that your body can somehow “filter out” the toxins and parasites is a dangerous misconception. While the human body has detoxification mechanisms, they are not equipped to handle the sheer volume and variety of pathogens present in bear scat. Attempting to consume it could lead to autointoxication – a condition where toxins build up in the body, causing severe illness and potentially death.

Wilderness Survival Best Practices: Avoiding Desperate Measures

Instead of considering such a dangerous option, focus on proactive wilderness survival strategies. Here’s what I recommend:

• Planning & Preparation: Thoroughly plan your trip, considering the terrain, weather conditions, and potential hazards. Pack appropriate gear, including a first-aid kit, navigation tools, and sufficient food and water.
• Navigation Skills: Master map and compass skills, and consider carrying a GPS device.
• Fire Starting: Learn multiple fire-starting methods.
• Shelter Building: Know how to construct a basic shelter for protection from the elements.
• Water Procurement & Purification: Learn how to find and purify water sources.
• Food Foraging (with caution): If you have extensive knowledge of edible plants, you can supplement your food supply. However, be absolutely certain of your identification before consuming anything. (REI Expert Advice on Foraging is a good starting point, but hands-on training is essential).
• Leave No Trace Principles: Practice Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment (Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics).

Staying Safe in Bear Country

Since we’re discussing bears, here are some essential safety tips for traveling in bear country:

• Make Noise: Alert bears to your presence by making noise while hiking.
• Carry Bear Spray: Bear spray is an effective deterrent. Know how to use it properly.
• Store Food Properly: Store food in bear-resistant containers or hang it from a tree.
• Avoid Attracting Bears: Don’t cook near your tent, and keep a clean campsite.
• Know What to Do During an Encounter: Familiarize yourself with bear encounter protocols.

Conclusion: Respect the Wilderness, Prioritize Safety

The story of Bart Schleyer is a sobering reminder of the power and unpredictability of the wilderness. The question of whether bear scat is edible is not just a morbid curiosity; it represents a dangerous mindset that prioritizes desperation over sound judgment. The answer is a resounding no. Focus on preparedness, respect the environment, and prioritize your safety. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy the beauty and challenge of the outdoors while minimizing your risk. Remember, a well-planned and executed trip is far more likely to be successful – and enjoyable – than one based on the false hope of surviving on something as dangerous as animal waste.