Despite the very real threats of dehydration, exposure, and personal injury, some of mankind's greatest fears come instead from predators in the animal kingdom.

And what's not to fear? Predators have sharp teeth, claws, and an often alarming level of cunning. They can strike without notice and leave you with crippling injuries or worse.

Despite these dangers, the great fear we have towards other predators (that's right, other predators; we're predators, too) is very often completely unfounded or at the very least, greatly exaggerated. Our fears come from generations upon generations of being told that we should fear these creatures.

And while they should certainly be respected, the truth of the matter is that we have far more risk of dying in a car accident on the way to the trailhead than being mauled by a bear.

Check out the next page to find out exactly why you might be attacked and how to avoid it.

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