DSC_6479-1R1 Black Bear
This photo was taken inside the city-limits of Gatlinburg, TN. This big "boy" Black Bear (Ursus americanus) was seen along the Little Pigeon River that runs thru the city. Gatlinburg is itself essentially wrapped inside areas of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP).
This bear does not seem to have missed out on too many meals. This is the first time we have seen bears in the city proper. We have been visiting the park for probably the last 40 years off and on. Locals have now told us they were having some problems with them. Ultimately, the bears will become an issue that has to be addressed, especially if they are fed human foods.
DSC_6479-1R1 Black Bear
This photo was taken inside the city-limits of Gatlinburg, TN. This big "boy" Black Bear (Ursus americanus) was seen along the Little Pigeon River that runs thru the city. Gatlinburg is itself essentially wrapped inside areas of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP).
This bear does not seem to have missed out on too many meals. This is the first time we have seen bears in the city proper. We have been visiting the park for probably the last 40 years off and on. Locals have now told us they were having some problems with them. Ultimately, the bears will become an issue that has to be addressed, especially if they are fed human foods.