As far as early warning systems go, the first bear I ever had in camp struck the guys on a nearby island a few hours later. Turned out I was their early warning system although I felt mighty stupid at the time. It was the first time in days I said a word, much less at that volume. I remember waking up that night hearing a distant commotion. I probably shouldn't say this but when I realized the cause, I just chuckled and went back to sleep. When the food pack is hanging I simply never worry about it.

I'd love to see this bear,   (You need to Login or Register take a crack at it. While I'd be tempted to document the effort, I wouldn't get out my camera until I was out of rocks.

Sounds like I just hate bears eh? Our first encounter after many trips was at French. A sow and two cubs. We were all happy to see them and watched 'em as we traded street clothes for paddling clothes ready to jump in our cars if it became necessary. After our trip we mentioned (as a highlight) seeing them to our outfitter. He became noticeably sad (and actually rather angry) and after a few questions cited budget constraints and the unfortunate failure of relocating mom once before as the official justification for the "destruction" of all three. Roger (May he rest in peace. 1909 - 1999, gold prospector > corporate guide >  outfitter, painter...) earned that 'wild' look in his eyes and I'll never forget how they looked on that particular day.