The death of a black bear euthanized after being hit by a car Friday in Stephens County is one of two bear deaths this week in the region.
Six hours before the Stephens County incident and ten miles away, another black bear was killed in a collision on GA 15/US 441 North in Habersham County. The wreck happened around 10:30 p.m. on April 24 near the intersection of Antioch Church Road.
According to the Georgia State Patrol crash report obtained by Now Habersham, 25-year-old Noah Metcalf of Clarkesville was driving a Ford Mustang north on GA 15/US 441. A bear cub walking east across the highway crossed into his path. Troopers reported that Metcalf was unable to see the small cub and struck it.
The impact caused the Mustang to run off the highway into the cable barrier in the median. According to the GSP report, Metcalf was not injured.
The crash report does not mention any other vehicles at the scene, although initial reports indicated others may have been involved.
Habersham County Emergency Services and sheriff’s deputies responded to the crash. Jakob Sackel captured video of the scene with his dash cam.
The bear’s mangled body was left on the side of the road, waiting for state transportation crews to dispose of it.
Heightened bear activity in region
The collisions in Stephens County and Habersham illustrate the fragile balance between humans and wildlife, particularly in rural areas.
This time of year, bears emerge from hibernation searching for food, water, and shelter. Wildlife experts urge residents to remain mindful of this increased activity.
As you travel, watch for bears along roadways. Also, minimize encounters at home by securing trash bins, pet food, and bird seed in wildlife-proof containers.
For more information about bear safety, visit visit BearWise.org and agfriendsofthebears.com.
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This article has been updated with new information
