Bear Alert for Talladega National Forest
The Anniston Outdoor Association and Alabama Trails have issued a precautionary warning for hikers and campers using the Talladega National Forest area in and around Mt. Cheaha.
A fully grown black bear was seen crossing Hwy 281/Skyway approximately two miles north of Cheaha State Park on Monday, November 5, 2012. It’s only a matter of time before there will be a residential population and there may be a small residential population already.
Bear caution signs have been placed at the High Falls and Nubbin Creek trail heads. Accordingly, be prudent in camping overnight in the TNF (especially around the Cheaha area) to use food storage precautions applicable to bear habitat areas.
Last modified: November 8, 2012
There have been other sightings that I have heard about recently as well. I think it’s great we have a “resident” population. It gives us the opportunity to see some wildlife that people here haven’t in several generations. Just take the proper precautions when camping and hiking. Hope I get the opportunity to see one soon!
How wonderful to know that the habitat for the black bear is right here in our area. Please advise people not to shoot the bears, be careful of them and enjoy them!!!
How exciting! The TNF is a great home for the black bear. Hope to see one soon. Maybe the WMA and local biologist will get involved to restore this wonderfull animal.
Just wondering who saw this bear and the time of day or night it was.
Several individuals have reported sightings this fall and some were posted on the Alabama Trails Forum. The Forest Service issued the alert after numerous sightings. http://www.alatrails.com/forum/index.php/topic,3219.0.html