Читать книгу Day & Section Hikes Pacific Crest Trail: Southern California онлайн

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There are relatively few dangerous animals in Southern California. Mountain lions are shy and usually avoid humans; count yourself lucky if you see one in a lifetime of hiking. They have been known to attack humans on very rare occasions. Children and petite women are at greatest risk. Traveling in groups deters lion attacks (and many other dangers). If you are attacked, yell, stand your ground, and fight back.

Rattlesnakes will usually warn you before you get too close. Heed their warnings and leave them alone. Never put your hands or feet where you haven’t looked first; in particular, avoid stepping over a log onto a sleeping snake. Most rattlesnake bites involve inebriated young men playing with the snake. If you are bitten, seek immediate medical attention.

Treat rattlesnakes with a healthy respect and give them a wide berth.

Bee and scorpion stings are rare and normally just irritating, but they can have nasty consequences if you are allergic. Allergic hikers should consult their doctor and carry (and know how to use) an Epi-Pen or other treatment kit.