[thackney]

(i.e. hold a conversation while hiking, or wear bells)

Only if you are going to wear a "cow" bell. IIRC, there have been studies showing the little "jingle" bells that some wear are too melodic and are not noticed by the bears, no difference than bird sounds.

[proud_yank]

Really? Thats pretty interesting and I haven't heard that.

I've never worn bells, but I always try to keep a good converstion when travelling in 'bear country'.