Was he looking for a ca-bear-net or a paw-secco?
A viral video shows a black bear entering a Gatlinburg wine shop on Nov. 15. Bystanders watch as the bear walks through the shop and topples over a display. The video first circulated on TikTok over the weekend.
The bear paid a visit to the Tennessee Homemade Wines location on the Gatlinburg Strip, just miles away from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Black bears are an iconic symbol of the national park, as it is one of the largest protected areas in the eastern United States where the bears can live in natural surroundings.
Safety tips: What should you do if you see a black bear
If you see a bear, the Parks Service advises you to be calm and remain watchful. Never approach the bear and do not allow the bear to approach you.
If your presence causes the bear to change its behavior, you are too close.
Here are some additional safety tips, according to the Gatlinburg Convention and Visitors Bureau.
- Do not approach within 50 yards or any distance that disturbs a bear. Use binoculars, a telephoto lens, or a spotting scope to view animals.
- Make sure the bear is aware of your presence by yelling and making noises to frighten the bear and encourage it to leave.
- Bring children and pets indoors. Groups should stay together, especially children.
- Keep dogs leashed at all times. Don’t let your dog harass a bear. If you see a bear, move away quickly to minimize barking and avoid a confrontation.