Black Bear Spotted In Marietta Caught, Relocated

MARIETTA, GA — A black bear spotted roaming twice Wednesday in Marietta has been caught, tranquilized and relocated out of the city.

The 300-pound bear was captured last night by Georgia Department of Natural Resources crews and relocated to its “natural habitat,” according to the Marietta Police Department, reported the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

It was seen twice in the area. The first time was near Laurel Park, according to Marietta police, who urged people to be careful.

They said it's a native species to Georgia and would probably return into the woods of the Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park.

Police said the state Department of Natural Resources had been requested to assist with the "safe relocation if necessary."

On Wednesday, they said the black bear was in the area of Whitlock and Manning Road, just East of Marietta High School.

"We have contacted DNR and the concern is that if they tranquilize it in this heat it could ultimately kill the bear. We are monitoring the situation and do have officers near it. Please work with us and remain patient... and cautious if you travel in that area tonight," police said.

"The working theory is still that the bear will return to it's natural home (just West of its current location) inside the National Park after sunset and the temperature cools," they added.