The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) announced that a black bear that entered the “Bear Can” concession stand at Anakeesta, an amusement park in Gatlinburg, was euthanized. The bear made its way into the stand through an employee entrance at around 9:30 p.m. on Saturday. A video captured the bear scavenging for food inside the stand while a park worker encountered it.
The park emphasized that encounters with bears are rare but acknowledged that they are an integral part of the Great Smoky Mountains ecosystem. Anakeesta works closely with wildlife agencies to ensure the safety of both visitors and animals. The park encourages guests to enjoy observing bears from a safe distance.
Due to the bear’s behavior and physical contact with an employee, the TWRA determined that euthanasia was necessary to prevent further conflicts and ensure public safety. A trap has been set for the bear, and the agency stressed the importance of responsible food disposal to prevent wildlife from accessing human food sources.
Anakeesta, located near Knoxville, provides a unique outdoor adventure experience in the Smokies. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of coexisting with wildlife in the area. The park spokesperson expressed regret over the euthanization but emphasized the need to prioritize safety in such situations.
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