SEVIER COUNTY, Tenn. (WOKI / WVLT) — Appalachian Bear Rescue is urging residents and visitors to properly secure bear-resistant trash containers after a bear cub was killed Monday just outside the Gatlinburg city limits.
According to a social media post from the wildlife rehabilitation organization, the cub was crushed by an unsecured trash receptacle after its mother apparently pulled the container over while attempting to access food inside.
Rescue officials said the incident highlights the dangers associated with bears becoming accustomed to human food sources.
“This mother bear had likely been in the area because she had been able to access human food in these trash bins,” Appalachian Bear Rescue said in its post. “It is important that we are not only using bear-resistant containers in our communities but that we are using them properly.”
The group said the cub’s death could have been prevented if the trash container had been properly secured to the ground.
“This cub’s mortality was completely preventable and would not have happened if the bear-resistant trash receptacle had been properly secured,” the organization stated.
Wildlife advocates have long warned that bears that gain access to human food often develop behaviors that place them at risk. Appalachian Bear Rescue said allowing bears to obtain food from garbage frequently leads to injury, relocation or death.
The incident occurred in an area where black bear activity is common, particularly during the summer months when bears are actively searching for food. Wildlife experts encourage homeowners, businesses and vacation rental operators to ensure trash is secured and inaccessible to bears.
Appalachian Bear Rescue is reminding the public to follow BearWise practices, including storing garbage in bear-resistant containers, securing lids properly and never intentionally feeding wildlife.
The organization said taking those precautions not only protects people and property but also helps prevent unnecessary bear deaths.
Residents and visitors seeking information about living safely alongside bears can find resources through BearWise and Smokies BearWise programs.
