Fact: Removing the bear and not the attractant will only create an opportunity for another bear to move in, creating a vicious cycle of conflict and killing.
Main Content

Appalachia Georgia Friends of the Bears
AWARENESS · EDUCATION · SAFETY · ADVOCACY
Our mission is to reduce Human-Bear conflict through proactive educational outreach programs, increase public awareness about coexisting with Black Bears, the use of humane bear deterrents, and advocacy.

Our Study Resulted in the Installation of Bear Signs in North Georgia

Through Our Partnership with Sisson Co., Over 15 "Be Bear Wise" Signs Were Emplaced

"Be Safe in Bear Country" Info Translated to Spanish
Our Partners
Gilmer County, Georgia
Ellijay, Georgia
The Big Canoe Black Bear Project
Black Bear Facts and Frequently Asked Questions
Will shooting or relocating a ‘nuisance’ bear solve my bear problem?
Where do Black Bears live?
Black bears predominately live in forests and feed on fruit, nuts, shoots and other vegetation. The are only found in North America from Canada to Mexico.
Isn’t carrying a rifle safer than bear pepper spray?
Fact: A person’s chance of incurring serious injury from a charging bear doubles when bullets are fired versus when bear pepper spray is used. Those injured defending themselves with bear pepper spray experienced shorter attacks and less severe injuries than those who chose to use firearms (US Fish and Wildlife Service). Bears are actually attracted to pepper spray residue if it is sprayed on the ground or on objects. Never spray it around a tent or on yourself. When used defensively, pepper spray must be sprayed directly in the attacking bear’s eyes or nose.