No charges will be filed despite a video showing people handling bear cubs in an Asheville apartment complex.
A recent video showing two bear cubs being pulled from a tree in Asheville, North Carolina, has prompted an investigation, although no charges will be filed, according to a state wildlife official. The footage, which was posted online, depicts individuals handling the cubs, one of whom even posed for a photo with the animal before it was dropped after a loud screech.
The incident, which occurred on Tuesday, involved a report to the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) about people harassing bear cubs. The commission’s response indicated that one of the cubs had bitten someone, prompting its escape. The second cub was later found in a retention pond, while the first was in poor condition and taken to a rehabilitation centre.
The NCWRC made it clear that capturing and keeping black bears is illegal in the state. However, after the cubs were released, officers decided that no charges should be pursued. NCWRC spokesperson Anna Gurney stated that the event appeared isolated, though officers and biologists spoke to the individuals involved about the importance of respecting wildlife.
Ashley Hobbs, the BearWise coordinator for the commission, reported that the cub was in poor condition, lethargic, and appeared to be injured. The cub was placed in a rehabilitation facility with the aim of releasing it back into the wild later this year.
Efforts to locate the second cub were unsuccessful, but officials remain hopeful that it managed to reunite with its mother. At this time of year, young cubs are dependent on their mothers, and they are particularly vulnerable without her protection.
The NCWRC urged residents to avoid attempting to handle bear cubs, as it can endanger both the cub and individuals if the mother bear is nearby. The incident was witnessed and recorded by a local resident, Rachel Staudt, who expressed her concern about the situation and the safety of the cubs.
Ashley Hobbs conveyed her frustration with the actions of those involved, emphasising the importance of giving wildlife the space they need to thrive. She added that the irresponsible handling of the cubs could have been potentially fatal, not just for the cubs but also for the people involved.
