A black bear described as “depressed” by local authorities caused quite a stir on Thursday as it was spotted sulking by the side of Highway 98 in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida. The bear’s unusual behavior drew so much attention that police had to issue warnings to onlookers about the dangers of approaching it for selfies.
Photos shared by the Walton County Sheriff’s Office show the bear moping beneath a telephone pole, seemingly disinterested in the passing traffic. The bear’s dejected demeanor tempted some individuals to get dangerously close for a snapshot, prompting police intervention.
The Walton County Sheriff’s Office humorously addressed the situation on Facebook, writing, “Famous last words, ‘If not friend, why friend shaped?’” and cautioned the public about the bear’s potential aggression despite its forlorn appearance. They added, “This black bear is stressed, depressed, lemon zest.”
Wildlife experts noted that the bear was displaying signs of severe stress. Biologists from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) were sent to the scene, but the bear had already wandered back into the woods by the time they arrived.
An FWC spokesperson told The Guardian, “The bear did not appear to be injured. It may have just been overheated and was resting before moving on.” Black bears are common in Florida, especially during spring and summer when young bears leave their mothers to find new territories.
Despite being familiar with bear safety protocols, many Floridians seemed to forget the risks in the presence of the sad-looking bear. One Facebook user commented, “Poor guy… I can see how deceptive the level of danger is…he just looks like he needs a hug, or a big pot of honey.”
Another expressed concern about habitat destruction, saying, “Awe poor guy looks so sad and defeated with all the trees being cut down they are being forced where people are! Very sad.”
Officials continue to remind the public to maintain a safe distance from wildlife and avoid interactions that could lead to dangerous situations for both humans and animals.
