It contains the advice or opinions of one or more Wikipedia contributors. This page is not an encyclopedia article, nor is it one ofWikipedia's policies or guidelines, as it has not beenthoroughly vetted by the community. Some essays represent widespread norms; others only represent minority viewpoints.
This page in a nutshell: Some actions that may appear harmless or helpful, may actually be provocative and result in being growled at—or evenmauled.
Does helook like he wants to be poked?Even the more harmless-looking variety might not appreciate being poked.
Bears are lovely creatures that oftenhibernate and are, for the most part, non-violent. However, whenpoked, bears can become quiteangry. As such, it's always bestnot to poke the bear.
Commenting to others about a proven editor whom you don't like "Wikipedia is better off without [that user]." (or its equivalent: "[That user] is not here to help build the encyclopedia.")
Addressing an editor as "Friend", or offering them "friendly advice", when the opposite is meant
Dismissing a user's considered thoughts out-of-hand by calling them "a wall of text" (or equivalently: "too long; didn't read")
Be careful not to imply that a specific individualis a bear. InRussia "bear" may be a compliment, but elsewhere(OED) it can meana rough or bad-mannered person and "like a bear with a sore head" meansvery irritable. Using "don't poke the bear" to hint that an editor is over-sensitive on a subject might not be true, and could be construed as apersonal attack. You might also offend fellow editors if they think you are accusing them of "bear-baiting" – abloodsport which involved setting dogs to attack a captive bear.(OED)
