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Black Bears in Residential Areas
Town Hall - News & Activities
Black Bears in Residential AreasJuly 02, 2010 |
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Black bears were recently sighted in the Stone Ridge community. A family of black bears (a female and two cubs) were recently spotted in the wooded area along Tall Cedars Parkway and Gum Springs Road.
The Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (VDGIF) and the Sheriff’s Office have been notified.
Black bears have a natural fear of humans, are shy, and usually avoid people. However, bears may be attracted to food sources in residential areas. VDGIF officials advise the following precautions:
- Secure your garbage - don’t put it out until the morning of pickup.
- Do not leave pet food outside.
- Remove bird feeders - feeders are a favored target for bears.
- DO NOT attempt to feed the bears.
These precautions will help discourage the presence of black bears in residential areas. After a few failed attempts to find food, bears will usually return to more normal wild food items.
If a bear enters your property and you feel in danger, call the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Department at 703-777-1021.
Please call Town Hall if you see black bears in the community (703-327-4390). The VDGIF website is a good source of information about black bears in Virginia.
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