Anthony Yates
A popular US national park is reminding guests that feeding bears and other wildlife in the area is illegal. They also reveal the consequences for breaking the rules.
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Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most popular national park in the US. Per the National Geographic, more than 12 million people visited the park in 2024. Zion National Park in Utah is the second most visited park on the list, and it saw just under 5 million guests.
The National Park Service (NPS) posted a news release about Great Smoky Mountains National Park on Wednesday. The organization explains that there has been a notable increase in incidents involving guests feeding black bears. “Feeding wildlife is illegal and endangers you, other visitors, and bears,” the release explains.
NPS reveals that three separate incidents of guests feeding animals were reported last week. In one incident, witnesses observed a visitor attempting to feed a mother bear while her two cubs were nearby. Authorities reportedly issued the visitor a citation and reminded readers that feeding wildlife in the parks is a federal offense. Feeding the animals carries a potential fine of up to $5,000 and a possible stint of six months behind bars.
The National Park Service Highlights The Dangers Of Feeding Black Bears
The press release notes that Great Smoky Mountain National Park houses roughly 1900 American black bears. NPS stresses that feeding them isn’t just illegal, it’s also potentially dangerous. Black bears are reportedly fast learners, and park rangers don’t want them making a connection between humans and food.
“Feeding a bear even once can result in that bear becoming conditioned to human food, losing its natural fear of humans,” the park states. NPS also worries that food-conditioned bears could be more likely to walk in front of cars. Ultimately, park staff may have to euthanize the animals if they get too close to humans or exhibit aggressive behavior.
The press release concludes with a list of guidelines for guests. Authorities advise visitors to stay at least 50 yards away from any bears. They also urge guests to securely store food and trash and suggest carrying bear spray as a precaution.
