Watch: Black bear cubs rescued, returned to the wild after mother was struck by car in Tennessee
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency picked up the cubs on May 18 after their mom was hit and killed by a vehicle on highway U.S. 16E in Sullivan County.
Though officers first did not see the bears, they left traps in the area to catch the three young bears and give them temporary care.
There were two females and one male cub, all in good health, according to a TWRA press release. The cubs were able to climb trees, were wary of humans, and ate well.
'While this is not an ideal situation, our goal is to give these cubs the best possible chance at survival,' said TWRA Bear Program Manager Dan Gibbs. 'We have released them in a low-density bear area with minimal human presence to maximize their chances of adapting and thriving in the wild.'
The sibling bears are now in a new, safe home in a remote area of the Cumberland Mountains.
Bears are most active in the spring and summer, meaning you're most likely to encounter a bear in Gatlinburg between April and August, according to the National Park Service website. During these months, bears are most active in the early morning and late evening.
However, bears can be out at any point in the day, so be mindful always.
If you see a black bear in East Tennessee, though they are undeniably adorable, do not approach it. For your safety and the safety of the animal, it is important that you keep your distance.
BearWise.org recommends a few basic guidelines to help keep people safe in a black bear encounter, depending on where you see the bear.
If the bear is indoors or near a dumpster or building, back away and give it a clear escape route. If it's inside leave doors open.
If the bear is in your backyard, remain a safe distance away and make loud noises to scare it away. Be sure it's gone before letting any pets out or removing items that might have attracted it.
If the bear is in the woods, back away slowly and quietly. Never run, as that might trigger the bear's chase response.
If you are approached by the bear, stand your ground and try to appear as large as possible. Make loud noises.
If a black bear charges you, use bear spray. If it makes contact, fight back using your surroundings. Do not play dead.
This article originally appeared on Knoxville News Sentinel: Watch: Black bears cubs rescued and returned to the wild in Tennessee
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