Middle Tennessee – Residents of Rutherford County have reported a noticeable uptick in black bear sightings over the past few years, prompting curiosity, concern, and a flurry of calls to the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA). Just last year, a large black bear was struck by a vehicle in nearby Shelbyville, a rare but telling incident that underscores the growing presence of these animals in Middle Tennessee.
According to TWRA, black bears are expanding their range beyond their traditional strongholds in East Tennessee, including the Smoky Mountains, and are now reclaiming parts of their historic habitat across the state. This resurgence is considered a conservation success story, as bear populations rebound from decades of decline due to habitat loss and hunting.
Bears are highly mobile creatures, capable of roaming dozens of miles in search of food, water, and shelter. Their natural curiosity and intelligence make them adept at navigating human environments—some have even learned to open car doors in search of snacks. The abundance of lakes and rivers in Rutherford County, including Percy Priest Lake and the Stones River, may serve as natural attractants, offering both hydration and rich ecosystems teeming with food sources…