GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK – Park rangers broke out a backhoe to rescue a black bear in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
The young bear had scrambled up a steep bank, presumably because it was startled while trying to cross the busy Laurel Creek Road. The bear lingered on the cliff face, causing a commotion.
“As more visitors stopped to watch, a “bear jam” formed—trapping the bear and creating a dangerous situation for both the animal and the public,” said the National Park Service.
So, authorities took action to protect the bear and visitors. They tranquilized the bear, rappelled down the cliff, and gently placed the bear into a backhoe bucket so it could be safely brought down to the ground.
“We’re proud of the creative, compassionate rangers that made this possible,” said the NPS.
NATIONAL PARK NEWS
