Buncombe County, N.C.: Bear Cub Sees Freedom Again
In a heartwarming turn of events, a young female bear cub, who became an internet sensation earlier this year, has been successfully released back into the wild. The adorable cub, dubbed **_“Selfie Bear”_**, gained fame after a viral video captured a group of people pulling her from a tree at an Asheville apartment complex while snapping selfies. The incident raised eyebrows and concerns, shedding light on human interactions with wildlife.
The Rescue Story
The incident that thrust this little bear into the spotlight occurred in April. After being spotted in a tree, she found her way into a nearby retention pond, where staff from the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) came to her rescue. With the cub’s safety in mind, they recognized her precarious situation and swiftly transported her to a licensed rehabilitation facility.
Fast forward to November 20, the NCWRC proudly announced that the bear cub had been released in a remote region of Western North Carolina. This decision was made after it was confirmed that the cub was healthy and poised to thrive in her natural habitat.
From Viral Fame to Wild Freedom
The cub’s rise to fame commenced when the initial video was shared on social media, drawing attention from wildlife enthusiasts and animal advocates worldwide. Unfortunately, the captivating footage also highlighted a critical issue: it is illegal in North Carolina to possess or keep black bear cubs. The NCWRC reported that a second cub, presumably her sibling, was spotted running away during the video but has yet to be found. The situation left many wondering if the cubs had become orphaned or were merely waiting for their mother to return.
Before her release, wildlife biologists worked diligently to prepare the bear cub for life in the wild. She was fitted with a tracking collar and given identifying marks to monitor her progress. According to Ashley Hobbs, Bearwise Coordinator with the NCWRC, recent GPS tracking data indicates that **_“she is adjusting well to life back in the wild.”_**
Learning from the Experience
The NCWRC issued a reminder for the public regarding the importance of leaving wild animals alone. They noted that bear cubs spotted alone are rarely orphaned, with mothers often just a short distance away foraging for food and preparing to return shortly after. “Remaining in the area or attempting to catch the cub could inadvertently separate it from its mother and possibly injure the cub,” stated the agency.
Additionally, NCWRC officials emphasized that while the intent behind capturing a bear cub might stem from a fascination with their cuteness, doing so can pose risks. Not only do humans compromise the safety of the cub, but they also risk their own safety if a mother bear is nearby. Protecting wildlife, including these adorable cubs, often requires a hands-off approach.
Professional Guidance on Bear Encounters
For those who happen to encounter bear cubs, it is critical to **_“never feed a bear of any age,”_** as this can lead to dangerous habituation. The NCWRC shared incidents from the past where orphaned cubs became overly familiar with humans due to being fed, ultimately hindering their chances of successful rehabilitation.
This particular bear cub is the ninth to be rehabilitated and released by the NCWRC in the year 2024 alone, showcasing the organization’s commitment to giving orphaned black bears a second chance at life in their natural environments. The organization has extensive experience, having been rehabilitating black bear cubs since 1976.
A Hopeful Future
As winter approaches, experts suggest that **_“this cub won’t be an exception”_** to the resilience often seen in rehabilitated black bears. Staff members expect her to find a suitable den for hibernation, pursuing instinctual behaviors that are critical for her survival.
As we celebrate this cub’s return to the wild, it serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting wildlife and understanding the boundaries that keep both humans and animals safe. Keeping our distance and observing from afar allows these magnificent creatures to thrive without human interference. Here’s to hoping **_“Selfie Bear”_** finds her way and flourishes in the wild!
