We saw the animal descending out of the tree in moment of hurry. He crashed through the watery bog as he made his get away. He could have stayed put, silent while we paddled by and we’d have never known.

About that startled Black Bear…  NC Wildlife Resources Commission: “Black bears are commonly seen in Brunswick County, especially during the summer months. This is because bear cubs are often sent away by their mothers to explore,”  source another source bear facts and yet another source

The “creek” was very flooded still from the recent rains. We witnessed pumping which seemed rather futile. Mother nature will have its own way.