It's very sad that people have encroached on the natural habitat of so many animals so that it makes them look bad. The animals are just doing what they do and we have to remember that when they look at us they may see a food source. Staying safe is our responsibility. I feel terrible when I see a news story that make the animals look like the bad guys when really, it's us.

Sorry you can't go out and enjoy the woods as much, but you are smart to be making lots of noise and maybe some pepper spray might be a good thing to throw in your backpack? Or a loud whistle or horn to scare an animal?