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When are bears most active in north carolinaOnslow black bears common, biggest in the country, sightings increase - Follow Us!
Western North Carolina is filled with hundreds of thousands of acres of protected mountains and forests in the form of national forests and state parks. With that much-protected habitat, you are sure to see an incredible amount of wildlife. From rare bird sightings to Elk in the Cataloochee Valley, and of course, Black Bears roaming the hills. With the increased black bear population in Western North Carolina, it is important for every resident and visitor alike to learn to safely cohabitate with them.
After all, they were here first! Here are a few tips to help you safely live and interact with bears in Western North Carolina. Black bear encounters are not just something that happens in the wild. From rural areas to mountain cities as large as Asheville, knowing how to coexist with black bears is essential.
Black bears are the only type of bears found in North Carolina. They typically have a black body with a brown muzzle, and occasionally a brown blaze across their chest. In other areas of North America, black bears can commonly be brown or more rarely, white and blue. Sightings are fairly common as protection laws and efforts have been realized after scarcely low population levels in the s to s.
Most black bears are shy, non-aggressive, and scared of humans. They will often run away or climb a tree when they see humans or interact. Bear attacks in North Carolina are rare, especially unprovoked attacks, and can often be avoided by using common sense. However, they can be dangerous in certain situations if they feel cornered, their cubs are threatened, or a dog exacerbates the situation. Because of this, it is unlawful to intentionally approach a bear within 50 yards. A healthy respect for bears space and limiting interactions as much as possible will help them have a healthy respect for humans.
North Carolina Law requires that all big game be reported including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and bears. Hunting bears with cubs or bears under 75 pounds is illegal. Black Bears are commonly seen throughout Western North Carolina.
Because so many cities, towns, and rural homes are backed up to or immersed in wooded areas, seeing a bear in your backyard while pouring a cup of coffee in the morning is a relatable and welcome occurrence for most North Carolina residents. Black bears are even common in populated areas of Asheville like neighborhoods and roads. Bear sightings are also frequent in Pisgah National Forest while visitors hike and camp, and along the Blue Ridge Parkway. In all of these places, responsible reactions and a healthy respect for these beautiful creatures keep both you and them safe.
If you want to get a closer look at black bears in a contained environment and learn more about their habits and defining behavior, WNC Nature Center is home to two Black Bears named Uno and Ursa. They also house a number of other animals that you can find throughout North Carolina.
Bears are as much a part of mountain living as the mountains themselves. You will see them represented in artistic statues and wood carvings in Cherokee , Waynesville , Maggie Valley, and throughout most of Western North Carolina. Remember that the mountains of North Carolina are their home too. By having a healthy respect for wildlife and using common sense, we are sure to enjoy their majestic presence for years to come! Download the Avalon Lookbook Fill out the information below, and you'll receive a digital copy of the Avalon Lookbook.
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