If there was a common theme throughout Sunday’s virtual forum on bears and how to coexist with them presented by the NC Wildlife Resources Commission, the Town of Highlands and the BEAR task force it was – the bears are usually not the problem.
Thus, the key to limiting human-bear interactions is to educate humans, not punish bears.
Highlands has a unique relationship with its resident bears, as do many communities across Western North Carolina. The thrill of seeing a bear is something that gets everyone’s blood pumping. It’s enjoyable to get a glimpse of bears just being themselves in their natural environment.
Bear sightings in recent years have become the talk of the town in multiple instances, from tearing through a dumpster behind a local eatery to strolling down Main Street unafraid of early morning commuters.
While there are any number of ways to limit human-bear encounters, some of which were outlined by NCWRC biologist Ashley Hobbs during Sunday’s presentation, the golden rule is to just leave the bears alone. The less humans interfere with their lives the better off they are.
It’s not a good idea to leave food outside in hopes of luring out a hungry bear. In fact, it’s illegal in Highlands and doing so may come with unwanted consequences for all parties involved. Bears have a sense of smell 100 times better than a human and seven times better than a bloodhound. They can and will find their next meal without any help.
While intentional feeding has been outlawed, its often the unintentional feeding that goes unchecked. Hobbs recommended removing bird feeders from March through November. While many Highlands residents undoubtedly enjoy watching the birds at their feeder, Hobbs pointed out that birds are resourceful and other food sources are plentiful in the spring and summer months.
It’s also important to be mindful of pets that spend time outdoors. Dogs in particular can incite bears by barking and/or being aggressive. Monitoring dogs left outside is wise, getting between an angry dog and an agitated bear is not.
Keep an eye out and you may see a bear in the wild while in Highlands. Be mindful to observe and not interact.