JACKSON, Tenn. (WBBJ) – A black bear sighting in Jackson has police urging people to stay alert, but online, it’s also turned into a running joke.
Local businesses are posting AI-made pictures showing the bear “hanging out” at their stores, “working” there or even as a fun way to warn the public about the bear that is roaming around. Wildlife officials say this is still a real animal moving through the area, but it should not be a threat to the public.
Black bear sighting(Gray News)
The TWRA says bears showing up in Middle and West Tennessee are often moving in from neighboring states as bear populations expand. Recent sightings suggest typical travel behavior as it moves through the region. They say this behavior is consistent with normal dispersal patterns and there aren’t currently plans to relocate the bear.
Wildlife officials are reminding residents to secure food sources like trash cans, pet food left outside, and bird feeders to reduce your chances of a visit from the new local celebrity.
“I make sure I don’t leave no garbage outside with food in it. And I got dogs, I got some little bitty puppies in the backyard and I make sure my fences are locked. Make sure all my doors are locked because I hear they can open up doors,” said Alice Gardner, Jackson resident.
Black bear sighting(Gray News)
Jackson Police issued a BOLO after reports the bear was last seen near Christmasville Road and Henderson Road. Officers say don’t approach it, don’t feed it, and don’t try to get a close-up photo. They’re asking people to keep a safe distance and report sightings to JPD, and to only call 911 if the bear is threatening people or property.
The bear’s doing his own tour of Jackson, your job is to not be a stop on the tour. Report sightings and keep pets inside.
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