When we think of black bears, we think of dangers.

These bears can indeed be irresistibly cute, but let’s not forget that they are wild animals and have the strength that could severely injure us. It’s best to stay away from them as an extra precaution.

However, one man in Asheville, North Carolina, has befriended the bears in the area.

These bears have frequented the neighborhood for years, and while others would find them dangerous, some took the opportunity to study our big, strong friends. While others just keep a safe distance and do not feel too alarmed in their presence.

Patrick Conley first saw black bears on his property in August 2017.

Although he had a feeling that they’d frequented the property even before that, it was only then that he started observing and filming the bears. It was the mother, Maïté, who first visited his porch. Then, she brought her cubs, Simone, Maurice, and Solange, with her.

Patrick welcomed them on his porch like old friends.

He kept a safe distance as a precaution and so as not to scare the bears, too. This went on for years until the bears went their separate ways.

But not for Simone. She became a regular!

She has visited Patrick’s porch at least once a week since May 2018. She grew big and strong. Soon enough, she had a litter of cubs of her own. He shared their visits on his porch, and people absolutely loved it.

This video, in particular, was the first time Simone brought her cubs.

She first came out of the bushes, which Patrick was used to. Then, her little ones followed behind. They were so cute with all those tiny (wobbly) steps!

It was like Simone was introducing her babies to her human friend.

She led them to the steps, getting the feel of stones. Simone slowly walked towards the porch steps, even sniffing the air as if checking for danger.

When everything was clear, she went on the porch, and so did her cubs.

Patrick tried to stay at a safe distance, close enough to let them feel he was a friend but far enough not to scare them away. The cubs were looking around as if trying to familiarize the place – a place they would soon be visiting themselves.

The cubs probably got bored because they walked off of the porch.

They hurriedly ran across the street, and Simone followed to ensure they were safe. When the mama bear thought they had enough fun for the day, she led them back to the woods, where they were safe.

Black bears can be dangerous to humans, but Patrick has gotten used to their presence.

Aside from him, The North Carolina Urban/Suburban Bear Study has also accustomed itself to these bears. They put a collar on some bears they chose to observe and study.

Patrick created a complete FAQs list for those curious about his situation.

Many people have asked about the “bear situation” on his property since he started posting these videos on his YouTube channel. He gave them (including us) the answers, and we know he is safe and sound.

Watch the video below to see Simone bring her babies to meet her human friend!

Please SHARE this with your friends and family.

Source: Patrick Conley YouTube Channel, UNCTV.org