Black Bear Sightings Increase in West Knoxville Following Tennessee River Crossing

A black bear was spotted swimming across the Tennessee River and entering residential areas in west Knoxville this week, prompting local wildlife officials to issue reminders about coexistence with native predators. According to the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA), such sightings are becoming more frequent as juvenile bears disperse from their home ranges in search of new territory.

Why are bears appearing in urban Knoxville?

Bears typically enter urban environments like Knoxville due to the presence of accessible food sources, such as unsecured trash, pet food, or bird feeders. Wildlife biologists with the National Park Service note that young bears, often between 1.5 and 2 years old, are frequently pushed out by older, dominant males. These “transient” bears often travel long distances, occasionally crossing major rivers and highways, which brings them into contact with suburban developments.

What should residents do if they see a bear?

The BearWise program, a resource supported by state wildlife agencies, recommends several safety protocols for residents encountering a bear:

• Do not approach: Maintain a safe distance and never attempt to feed or photograph the bear at close range.
• Secure attractants: Keep trash cans inside until the morning of pickup and remove bird feeders, as these are primary reasons bears linger in neighborhoods.
• Make noise: If a bear is in your yard, make loud noises from a safe location inside your home to encourage the animal to leave.
• Report sightings: Significant sightings or bears exhibiting aggressive behavior should be reported to the local TWRA regional office.

How do Tennessee bear populations compare to previous years?

Data from the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency indicates that the state’s black bear population has been steadily expanding its range over the last two decades. While the Great Smoky Mountains remain the primary stronghold for the species, bears are increasingly colonizing the Cumberland Plateau and other wooded corridors near metropolitan areas. This expansion reflects a successful recovery effort, but it also marks a shift in regional wildlife management, as human-bear interactions are no longer confined to the immediate vicinity of national parks.

What happens next for the bear?

In most instances, bears that wander into urban areas are simply passing through. According to the TWRA, these animals usually find their way back to more suitable, forested habitats on their own, provided they do not find a consistent food reward in residential areas. Wildlife management intervention—such as trapping or relocation—is typically reserved for bears that become “habituated,” meaning they have lost their natural fear of humans or have become dependent on human-provided food. Residents are encouraged to remove all potential attractants to ensure the bear continues its natural migration rather than establishing a presence in the neighborhood.