Black Bear activity has intensified in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It's a great time to see bears ... if you play it safe!

The black bear is the most popular and sought-after photography subject in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Park visitors all want to catch a glimpse of the large mammals, and will cast reason and good sense aside in order to land a "trophy" photo.

But black bears are wild animals. The park is not a zoo, but a habitat. A she-bear with cubs is a wondrous sight, but she will defend her offspring with her life, and will attack if she feels threatened.

In 2009, park officials have indicated that extraordinarily large black bear populations have led to an increased number of incidents with visitors. Some back country campsites and trails have been closed as a result.

The good news is that you'll have an excellent chance of seeing a bear during a visit to the park this year. The bad news is that you may become involved in a bear "incident" if you are not wary. Always keep in mind:

1. Bears are large and powerful animals and can cause serious injury or death.
2. Bears are attracted by improperly stored food or improperly disposed of garbage.
3. Bears with cubs are the most likely to act aggressively.
4. Feeding a bear can be a death sentence for the animal. Bears that become "nuisance" bears often have to be destroyed.
5. Keep a respectful distance from bears. You are a guest in their world.
6. Some people just don't get it. Report violators to park rangers.

And finally, make one of the three park visitor's centers your first stop on your next visit. Get the very latest information about active areas and closures. A little information and a lot of common sense go a long way towards a safe park experience.

And you just might save a bear's life by doing so!

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