USA TODAY published a video of two bears fighting on an Asheville roadside. Here’s what to know about the area’s bear population.
The bears featured in the short USA TODAY clip caused a dramatic scene with their scuffle. While the majority of Western North Carolina may not have witnessed a bear brawl, most residents are far from strangers to the black bear population. In fact, many of the animals aren’t particularly shy, perfectly comfortable rifling through trash cans or even taking casual strolls through downtown Asheville.
With the warmest months of the year upon us, bears are growing particularly bold in many areas, ready to roam and explore in search of food. Here’s what to know about black bears in WNC, including common misconceptions, safety rules and more.
Are black bears dangerous? What to do if you see a black bear
NC Wildlife Commission BearWise coordinator Ashley Hobbs said in a 2024 news release that, while black bears are not generally dangerous and are rarely aggressive toward humans, people sharing territory with the animals should do their part to reduce the potential for conflict.
Black bear safety program BearWise recommendations include:
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Never feed or approach bears.
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Secure food, garbage and recycling.
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Remove bird feeders when bears are active.
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Never leave pet food outdoors.
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Clean and store grills and smokers.
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Alert neighbors to bear activity.
If you encounter a black bear, the National Park Service suggests:
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Do not allow the bear to approach you.
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If the bear is at a distance, feeding, or walking by and notices you but continues its natural behavior, no action is needed on your part. Proceed while continuing to observe the bear.
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If your presence causes the bear to change its behavior (stops feeding, changes its travel direction, watches you, etc.), you are too close.
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Being too close may promote aggressive behavior from the bear such as running toward you, making loud noises, or swatting the ground. The bear is demanding more space. Don’t run, but slowly back away, watching the bear. Increase the distance between you and the bear. The bear will probably do the same.
When are black bears most active?
The NPS says that black bears are most active during early morning and late evening hours in spring and summer, with mating usually taking place in July.
How big is the average black bear?
According to BearWise, the record weight for a black bear is over 800 pounds. Male black bears generally weigh between 130 and 500 pounds, while females are smaller at around 90 to 350 pounds.
Iris Seaton is the trending news reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA TODAY Network. Reach her at iseaton@citizentimes.com.
This article originally appeared on Asheville Citizen Times: Video: See black bears fight by Asheville road. Bear safety tips
