Nature at a Safe Distance

Mother Black Bear and her cubs in Cades Cove, Great Smoky Mountain National ParkStaff Photo by Sara May

Mother Black Bear and her cubs in Cades Cove, Great Smoky Mountain National Park
Staff Photo by Sara May

Few things excite tourists and locals as much as a black bear sighting, and if it happens to include a mother bear and her cubs it is just that much better. Experts estimate that there are in excess of 7,000 black bears in Tennessee and that number is likely to grow. With black bears experiencing a population boom, the opportunity for sightings has risen dramatically. Most cubs are born during the hibernation months and by early summer they are just reaching the curious stage. Though bear cubs are certainly cute, TWRA cautions that approaching a cub can be detrimental because the mother bear is rarely far away. While Tennessee’s most popular mascot is certainly picture worthy and residents, according to a recent TWRA survey, are supportive of the black bear, those that come in contact with them should exercise caution. Cute and fuzzy they may be, but they are also wild animals. In the summer months a male will reach around 250 pounds and stand around 6 feet, while a female is significantly smaller at around 100 pounds. By fall, however, a male can weigh in as large as 600 pounds.

It is natural for tourists and locals to want to take pictures of the interesting creatures, but it is illegal in the Smoky Mountains National Park to come within 50 yards or 150 feet of a black bear, as well as any distance that disturbs or displaces the bear. It is believed that around 1500 bears live in the National Park and they reside in all elevations. There are also resident bear populations in surrounding counties, such as Jefferson, Cocke, and Greene counties. Many believe that bears are not meat eaters but, like humans, they are omnivores. Bear sightings often cause a ruckus and a barrage of cameras. If a bear is disturbed by the presence of a human, the person should back away immediately. Any change in behavior, from changing position to ceasing activity, is an indicator that the person is too close and in danger. A bear many make noise, run toward or stomp at the offending human to establish his need for space. Back away slowly while watching the bear should assure the bear and end the encounter.

While it is unfortunate, there are occasionally bear attacks. Bears that approach without noise or paw swatting it is best to change directions. If the bear continues to follow, experts advise that a person should stand their ground and if the bear advances make loud aggressive noises and actions. Groups should stay close together and both groups and singles should try to appear larger. Throwing non food items like rocks or waving large sticks could deter the bear. At this point experts advise the person to stand their ground and do not turn away from the bear. Most bear attacks are involving food, so separation from food could stem the bear’s advance. If the bear is uninterested in food or food is not the motivating factor, the bear is possibly considering the human as prey and if attacked, it is important to fight back aggressively, according to experts.

Remember to keep sightings of black bears at a safe distance for the bear and humans. Sharing the lush mountains of Tennessee with such a magnificent creature is a blessing and responsibility for all locals and tourists alike!

Source: K. Depew, News Director