Safety and Education Committee Report - Archive

Encountering Animals

Bicycles can be ghostly quiet so it is possible to get very close to animals before being noticed. Seeing wild animals up close is one of the “perks” of being a bicyclist. Because the vehicle is so quiet sometimes the bicyclist can get so close that problems arise. I try not to get closer than 100’ without warning any animal larger than a squirrel.

When someone thinks of bicycles and animals, unrestrained vicious dogs come to mind. New Hampshire has a leash law which has greatly diminished this problem. It has been many years since an unrestrained vicious dog has gotten near me (and it may have been a coyote). The loose dogs that chase me keep their distance and the owner is usually grateful when I inform them (politely) of the problem. Many people walk their dogs on long leashes. Some of these dogs will chase bicycles. Often the dog will cross the bicycle’s path and the leash becomes a problem. I use my bell to warn them when I approach pedestrians with dogs.

Other animals (except geese) usually won’t attack. If it looks like an animal will become a problem I’ll ring my bell some distance away and see what happens. Cats and skunks and squirrels will frequently “freeze” until you’re quite near and then dart in front of your vehicle. Ringing the bell several times usually gets them to move. I’ve found yelling at animals ineffective and recommend never yelling at a nearby skunk. Attacking geese are rare but hard to handle. If you encounter this problem get help from animal control.

Horses on the roadway present unique problems. They are all different and the riders have varying skill levels. You can never be sure what will happen when passing them. A startled horse is a very dangerous animal. Whenever you encounter a horse; try to make your presence known as soon as possible. Ringing a bell will frighten most horses. When I see horses I start whistling. This tells the horse and rider I’m human and approaching. Just to be sure, I’ll verify my presence by stating “On you (your) left” some distance back. I want some sign of acknowledgement before passing a horse. When passing any horse, I give it plenty of room and avoid sudden movements.

Bill Fisk- Safety and Education

Safety and Education Coordinator