The boy probably did have some crumbs or something. The Alaska couple were experienced and didn't have food in or near their tent. They also had a gun in the tent and were not able to use it.

That's why your walking stick has to have a very good point on the end. Hmm, pork!

Yet another reason why I sleep in a tent with my 44 laid across my chest out in the back country. Yup, better'n a security blanket...

Javelina can be downright dangerous to be around. A sow with young'uns will come after anything that even looks like it could make a meal out of one of them. My mom's scottie dogs have learnt to leave the pigs out back (she lives in Tucson) alone, or at best bark at them from a distance, and from behind the fence. Scottie dogs cannot outrun a Javelina!

Pig sticking, now there's a job! I knew a Houston cop that would take a rottweiler and a bulldog out pig hunting. He'd put the bulldog on the pig's snout, and the rotty would grab a hindleg, and while the dogs had the pig stretched out and pre-occupied, he'd come up and poke a hole or two up between the neck and shoulder or else up behind the third rib. He said the biggest one he got was over 400 lbs, and that bulldog was having the ride of his life, but never let go, yee-ha!!!

Don was carrying a 30-06 and was watching a deer trail from a stump. He did get a shot off but we still do not know if the bear was hit, the bear has not been found and is probably in hibernation now as it has been very cold up here for the last 2 weeks. It appears the reason for the attack was the bear had a cache in the area which I can only assume that Don was unaware of as it seems like he was blind sided.

Darwin award? I can't imagine how you come up with that!

Well, an '06 is certaintly enough gun. It just goes to show that no matter what preparations you make, the possibility of getting into a jam is always present. I personally find that part of the charm of being in the outdoors. I'm sure that is small comfort to his family and friends though....

I totally agree. Every part of being in the bush is appealing even having to stay on your toes.
Thanks for your thoughts.