Eastern Cherokees debate future of bear parks on reservation

Wednesday, February 20, 2013  

Members and leaders of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians are debating the future of bear zoos on the reservation.

Elders are pushing the tribe to outlaw the facilities. Chief Michell Hicks is endorsing a sanctuary for the animals if that happens.

"We need to create a more animal friendly environment for these animals,” Hicks said in a letter to the tribal council, The Smoky Mountain News.

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals also has pressured the tribe to close the bear parks.

Get the Story:
Cherokee entertains idea of bear sanctuary (The Smoky Mountain News 2/20)

USDA shuts down bear zoo on Eastern Cherokee Reservation (01/31)