The responsible tourists in the accompanying footage are those standing farthest from the black bear trying to feed in Washington’s Mt. Rainier National Park.
The footage, showing tourists holding camera phones just yards from the bear, was captured Wednesday alongside a scenic park road.
Instagram user Chelseajin_12 did not provide details other than the date and location. But her footage is direct evidence of reckless and seemingly illegal behavior.
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The park states on its website: "All wildlife is protected in the park. Park regulations require that all visitors maintain a distance of at least 50 yards between themselves and any park wildlife. Do not approach wildlife."
Many of Chelseajin_12’s followers were harsh in their criticism.
The top comment reads: "Thanks for providing such clear evidence for investigators! If someone ends up getting killed, they’ll clearly know it wasn’t the bear’s fault!"
Despite the docile appearance of this bear, black bears are dangerous, especially if they feel threatened or crowded. The tourists closest to the bear are on both sides of the animal, creating a potentially volatile situation.
Another follower suggested, jokingly, that the bear should "have bear spray" to drive off the tourists.
Another top comment reads: "People think they’re recording a squirrel."
This article originally appeared on For The Win: Mt. Rainier tourists shown foolishly approaching roadside bear
