In a recent incident caught on camera, several individuals were seen pulling black bear cubs out of a tree and taking selfies with them. The incident, which took place in Asheville, North Carolina, drew the attention of wildlife officials. However, no charges will be filed as it appears to be an isolated occurrence.

According to Anna Gurney, a spokesperson for the NC Wildlife Resources Commission, the incident was deemed "dangerous and unfortunate," but the cubs were immediately released. Gurney emphasized that capturing and keeping black bears is unlawful in North Carolina, but due to the prompt release of the cubs, no charges will be pursued.

Cell phone footage captured the group of people pulling two bear cubs out of a tree and holding one of them for a photo opportunity. During the incident, one of the individuals accidentally dropped the cub. Concerned authorities and Ashley Hobbs, a biologist from the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, responded to the scene and found one of the cubs wet and cold.

Hobbs expressed their concern for the bear cub, stating that it potentially underwent a traumatic experience during the incident. In a news release issued on Friday, April 19, the NC Wildlife Resources Commission confirmed that officers and biologists had spoken with the person involved in the recorded incident. They stressed the importance of leaving bear cubs alone and hoped that the media attention surrounding the incident would increase awareness about respecting and preserving wildlife.

The incident serves as a reminder for the public to adhere to BearWise Basics, which advocates for maintaining a safe distance from wild animals and refraining from any interaction that could negatively impact their well-being. The NC Wildlife Resources Commission and other wildlife organizations continue to educate the public on coexisting with wildlife responsibly.

While no charges will be filed in this particular case, officials hope that the attention garnered from this incident will serve as a reminder to respect the boundaries and inherent vulnerability of wild animals.