06/05/2018
good to know..
Last week, our owner was fortunate enough to visit the North American Bear Center in Northwoods Ecology Hall outside of Ely, Minnesota! He wanted to learn firsthand about Black Bears to ensure the highest level of safety for our guests while doing what we could to protect the wildlife of the Great Smoky Mountains.
His visit with the staff and handlers of the North American Bear Center put a couple of myths about Black Bears to rest.
First Myth: Black Bears that have lost their fear of people are more likely to attack. Truth: They are actually calmer, more trusting, and less defensive. What to Do: If you happen to encounter a Black Bear on our property, remain calm and slowly back away form the bear while announcing, in a calm voice, what you are doing. (No, bears cannot understand you but this is what we were told to do by actual Black Bear handlers!)
Second Myth: Mother Black Bears are likely to attack. Truth: This is one of the biggest misconceptions about Black Bears. Mother Black Bears are highly unlikely to attack people in defense of their cubs. What to Do: Same as before... remain calm and slowly back away while announcing yourself.
With all of this said, please never feed or attempt to feed Black Bears. In addition, never attempt to be aggressive with Black Bears because it could lead to a defensive response.
Black Bears are a unique part of the Great Smoky Mountains. Following these simple guidelines, our guests that are lucky enough to see or encounter Black Bears, will know the best way to handle the situation to ensure their own safety and the safety of those around them.