Full Breakdown
Metro Atlanta Sees Surge in Black Bear Sightings
7/14/2026, 11:25:23 AM
Recent Sightings Across Metro Atlanta
Police departments in Cobb, Coweta, Fayette and Spalding counties have logged multiple black-bear encounters over the past several weeks. A juvenile bear was reported on a Smyrna backyard near Cottesford Drive and Windy Hill Road. Earlier in June, Senoia police noted a bear roaming the Springdale subdivision off Coweta Street, while Newnan officers documented sightings in the Stonebridge subdivision and on the city’s east side—residents there have nicknamed the animal “East Side Eddie” (or “Edith”). In Spalding County, a roughly 300-pound bear was seen near Briarcliff Road off Highway 16 West. All reports describe non-aggressive behavior.
Why Bears Are Roaming
Georgia wildlife officials explain that summer is a peak period for black bears. Young bears often leave their mothers to forage, adult males travel long distances seeking mates, and nursing females expand their range to locate food. These natural movements increase the likelihood of bears entering suburban neighborhoods.
Agency Guidance for Residents
The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has been alerted to the sightings and advises local agencies to leave bears alone unless they become a nuisance or safety threat. Police departments echo the DNR’s recommendations: do not approach, feed, or follow a bear; secure garbage cans, recycling bins, pet food, and bird feeders; clean outdoor grills and smokers after use; and keep children and pets supervised outdoors. Residents are encouraged to report sightings to authorities and give bears a clear path to move along.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It's simply a bear doing the bare necessities,” — Senoia Police (social-media post)
- “Officials say residents can help avoid conflicts with bears by following a few simple rules: Never approach, feed or try to follow a bear.” — Georgia wildlife officials
- “Secure garbage cans and recycling bins.” — Georgia wildlife officials
- “Bring pet food indoors and remove bird feeders during periods of bear activity.” — Georgia wildlife officials
- “Clean outdoor grills and smokers after use.” — Georgia wildlife officials
Practical Steps for Neighbors
Homeowners should lock trash containers, remove attractants such as birdseed and pet food, and keep doors and windows closed when bears are active. Promptly notifying police or the DNR about a sighting helps officials monitor bear movements and reduce potential conflicts.
