Human/Bear Encounters On The Increase In Tennessee

Bear encounters here in Tennessee are on the rise. In Gatlinburg, recent bear encounters have raised safety concerns. A black bear entered a concession stand, resulting in a minor employee injury. That bear had to be euthanized by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency. Wildlife officials now are calling on everyone to secure garbage and food, and to take additional precautions where necessary, including electric fencing and reinforced doors. This latest incident follows another bear encounter in Gatlinburg last week. Authorities meanwhile, urge caution and are working to minimize human-bear interactions to safeguard both wildlife and humans.