Bears can be beautiful, but they're best observed from afar.
If a bear approaches you, you're not a Disney princess — it's hungry, and you're in danger. Instagram couple Christy and Brooks (@smokymtfaithfoodfun) reposted a video from a tourist to serve as a cautionary tale.
"This is too close to film a bear," they wrote. "Bears are beautiful animals but we are in their environment. … they should be respected by giving them proper space."
The black bear is seen climbing up the steps in a shopping center, likely looking for food. The bear is just a few feet from the person filming, and it's far too close.
To prepare for hibernation, bears constantly seek out food throughout fall. But with habitat loss reducing available resources, desperate bears are wandering into human neighborhoods.
Unfortunately, bears and other animals that become accustomed to and unafraid of humans are considered a danger and are likely to be euthanized.
Stay hydrated and refreshed this holiday season — without any sugar or harmful additives Nuun’s zero-sugar hydration tablets are a perfect, guilt-free way to enhance your water throughout the day. You’ll get five essential electrolytes for everyday hydration — with zero grams of sugar. Plus, Nuun tablets are certified vegan and gluten-free, and they’re the perfect size to keep in your car, purse, or anywhere you'll want a healthy, restorative drink. Learn more → |
To protect yourself and others, always keep a safe distance from wildlife. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service recommends staying at least 300 feet — around the length of a football field — away from bears.
Never approach, chase, or feed bears or other wild animals. When animals feel threatened, they can charge, trample, or attack, and can cause serious injury or death. One group of tourons — a combination of "tourists" and "morons" — was lucky to walk away unscathed after taunting two elk and their calf.
Commenters were frustrated with the behavior spotlighted in Christy and Brooks' TikTok.
One resident wrote, "People come here in hopes of seeing our bears. If you see one or several don't get close to film them! Don't feed them! Stay a reasonable distance and let them go on their way."
TCD Picks » Upway Spotlight
💡Upway makes it easy to find discounts of up to 60% on premium e-bike brands
|
Do you think humans are doing enough to protect endangered animals? Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. |
Definitely 👍 "I wish I could feel bad for people like this who get too close," another user commented.
"It actually makes me mad because the bears are not relocated. They are euthanized if they interact with humans in a violent way and usually it's because someone with a camera thought he'd be cool and get close to an actual bear," a third viewer said.
Get TCD's free newsletters for easy tips to save more, waste less, and make smarter choices — and earn up to $5,000 toward clean upgrades in TCD's exclusive Rewards Club.
Cool Picks
