The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) is currently investigating a report that an individual in West Knoxville has been intentionally feeding bears. According to WVLT, TWRA spokesperson Matthew Cameron stated, "Unfortunately, we’re seeing more instances where individuals are placing food out for wildlife to view them, which often leads to complaints from neighbors."
While there are no state laws against feeding wildlife in Tennessee except within Gatlinburg city limits, the practice is strongly discouraged by the agency. Not only can it cause bears to lose their natural fear of humans, a comfort which can lead to dangerous interactions, but it also risks the safety of the community. It can lead to the euthanization of the bears, as reported by WATE.
The issue came to light following sightings of a bear near Lovell Road and reports of a person feeding it, increasing the community's concerns about bear activity. Despite this, TWRA officials claim that the number of bear reports in the area has not significantly increased compared to previous years. Recent sightings can be attributed to heightened public awareness and the use of cameras that detect wildlife activity, which might have otherwise gone unnoticed, WBIR explains.
To prevent dangerous bear interactions, wildlife officers urge residents to be "BearWise", which includes measures like never feeding or approaching bears, securing garbage, removing bird feeders when bears are active, and ensuring pet food is not left outdoors. Violations for feeding wildlife are enforceable within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, though outside of it, such citations cannot be imposed. Nonetheless, the consequences are clear: improper interactions with these majestic creatures can lead to penalties as steep as $5,000 or six-month jail sentences for those who do not heed the advice, as warned by the TWRA.
