What would you expect to see in a shopping village at Christmas? Holiday decorations perhaps, maybe a Christmas tree with lights or a Santa Claus with excited little kids on his lap. Those are all realistic possibilities, but a black bear walking around, poking and sniffing at anything he sees, is not. That is what actually took place at an indoor shopping village in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, recently. The furry four-legged visitor doesn't seem too fazed by the people there, and they seem pretty chill about him as well.
It's Black (Bear) Friday When a Four-Legged Visitor Takes Leisurely Jaunt Around Shopping Village, Comes Close to Children
Per a video from ABC News posted on X, the lumbering creature walks around slowly. He seems to be attracted to the holiday lights. He stops and sniffs something on the ground, then continues his expedition. Meanwhile, shoppers aren't exactly fleeing in fear. They appear to be going about their business.
People Wrote Posts Commenting on the Bear
Some had a humorous take on the weird situation. Others had a different view. Some felt sorry for the animal.
"bear needs to prepare for hibernation. so that guy is doing some last minute shopping before going away for 6 months"
A serious opinion. "A successful wildlife co-existence requires community effort and respect for boundaries! Remember, bears are driven by food, so securing attractants is key to keeping both people and animals safe."
Another solemn take. "It's a shame. Due to overdevelopment we are forcing animals out of their natural habitat. We scream in horror and fear and demand they be killed when all they want is to eat and a safe place to sleep"
"Poor thing is hungry"
"Black bear wanders around its former habitat looking for food left by humans."
"Oh no! Not a few feet from children! The horror!"
"Poor thing was very thirsty.. I hope they treat it humanely as the bear treated them beary gently. Didn't even threaten anyone.. Just went about his tour.. lol..
"Poor thing is just looking for something to drink and , likely something to eat. It's always sad when we see animals wondering around like this and it's happened ng more."
