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They are an example of local lore intended to frighten and confuse outsiders and amuse locals, similar to the jackalope, hoop snake, wild haggis or snipe hunt.. Various methods suggested to deter drop bear attacks include placing forks in the hair, having Vegemite or toothpaste spread behind the ears or in the armpits, urinating on oneself, and only speaking English in an Australian accent.

Australian Museum

The Australian Museum has a purportedly serious entry on drop bears in its catalogue of Australian fauna, classifying them as Thylarctos plummetus. The description says they are about the size of a very large dog, have coarse orange fur with dark mottling, have powerful forearms for climbing and attacking prey, and bite using broad powerful premolars rather than canines. Specifically it states that they weigh 120 kilograms (260 lb) and have a length of 130 centimetres (51 in). However, elsewhere, the museum acknowledges that this was not a serious entry, and was inspired by the "silly season". The Australian Museum also established a small display in the museum itself, exhibiting what it said may have been drop bear related artifacts.

Austral a mythical creature said to live in the outback; it resembles an oversized koala with sharp teeth and drops from trees to devour unwary passers-by

In popular culture

Australian Geographic ran an article on its website on April Fools' Day 2013 claiming that researchers had found that drop bears were more likely to attack tourists than people with Australian accents. The article was based on a 2012 paper published in Australian Geographer, and despite referencing the Australian Museum entry on drop bears in several places, images included with the Australian Geographic article were sourced from Australian Geographer and did not match the Australian Museum's species description.

Danger to humans and first aid

Bush walkers have been known to be 'dropped on' by drop bears, resulting in injury including mainly lacerations and occasionally bites. Most attacks are considered accidental and there are no reports of incidents being fatal.

There are some suggested folk remedies that are said to act as a repellent to Drop Bears, these include having forks in the hair or Vegemite or toothpaste spread behind the ears. There is no evidence to suggest that any such repellents work. 

Drop bears attacks by year

Here is a list of the essential items to bring with you to Fraser Island, but please ask us about our Drop Bear Highway Service to avoid bringing your entire backpack with you.

• A small backpack (unless using our Drop Bear Highway Service)
• Sunglasses
• A hat
• Swim wear
• A jumper and a raincoat
• 1 litre refillable water bottle (we supply water!)
• A towel sunscreen

1. Insect repellant (nov-mar) Your camera!
2. Any alcohol or snacks you may want (please bring only cans or plastic bottles, glass can easily break on the way up to the Island due to the rough conditions)… the island is very expensive
3. for all drivers (very important!): have your drivers license with you!