A Black bear emerges from the dense forest below Clingmans Dome, the late afternoon sun adding highlights to the rich blackness of its developing winter coat. For the bear, October is a month on non-stop foraging on grass, edible plants, and mountain ash berries in preparation for hibernation and the long winter ahead. It is estimated that several thousand Black Bears inhabit the Smoky Mountains and sightings are not uncommon.
Taken 10-17-11 Sevier County, TN

REF # : WLD-2789 R-5 D3X 70-200MM