An eight-mile stretch of North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Parkway has been closed indefinitely after motorists stopped to feed and hug a lone black bear cub.
The section between milepost 367.6 near the Craggy Picnic Area and milepost 375.6 at Ox Creek Road has been shut down to protect both the cub and park visitors.
Rising Concerns Over Bear Interaction
Leesa Sutton Brandon from the National Parks Service expressed uncertainty about the cub’s status, noting that no other bears were seen nearby.
While not explicitly stated, the danger exists that overly familiar bears might face euthanasia, a common practice when wild animals become too accustomed to humans.
Superintendent Tracy Swartout highlighted the risks, saying, “When people intentionally attract bears with trash and food, it can lead to hazardous situations.”
Recent Bear Sightings and Behavior
The cub became a local attraction, especially at Lane Pinnacle Overlook, where visitors attempted to feed and even hug the animal.
No photos of these interactions have surfaced, but the bear’s comfort around humans escalated to biting the seat of a visitor’s red Harley motorcycle.
Park Service’s Decision to Close the Road
The closure aims to reduce human-bear interactions, allowing the bear to lose interest in the area. Officials hope this measure will prevent potential harm to both visitors and the bear.
The black bear is the only bear species in North Carolina and the eastern US, typically characterized by its black fur and brown muzzle.
The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission notes that while their fur color can vary, their habits remain consistent.
Broader Implications and Ongoing Warnings
This incident echoes recent events in Connecticut, where a bear broke into a home and stole a lasagna from the freezer, prompting similar warnings to residents.
The Blue Ridge Parkway, the most-visited site in the National Park Service, with 15.71 million visitors last year, remains partially accessible. The Craggy Gardens recreational area can still be reached via NC80.
The parkway closure’s duration remains uncertain as officials work to ensure the safety of both wildlife and visitors.
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