Habituated bears can pose public safety concerns and in some unfortunate circumstances may have to be killed. We believe that the black bear population within the Park ranges from the low to high hundreds, depending on the availability and distribution of natural forage, particularly mast crops, the degree of annual recruitment and mortality within the population, and seasonal influences such as breeding cycles, juvenile dispersal, and hunting pressure from adjacent lands. Gestation is 7 to 8 weeks. Living with Black Bears in Virginia Brochure, BearWise: Seis Consejos Bsicos de BearWise en Casa. DWR takes the problem of mange and its potential implications on black bears seriously. The state Division of Natural Resources conducted a poll to elect a state animal as a symbol for West Virginia in 1954-55. Give the bear plenty of room to escape. Which breed of dog is the smallest used in hunting? In most cases, a telephone call will be all that is necessary to find successful solutions (usually the removal of attractants). Residents and visitors to Virginia can minimize negative interactions with bears by following some simple guidelines. wants and tolerance levels of West Virginians and to educate our citizens about Photo by Mike Vaughan, VT. But campuses and the vast majority of classroom buildings will no longer be considered sensitive places where guns can be banned, and thats a very good thing. In Virginia most black bears are true black in color unlike black bears found in more western states that can be shades of red, brown or blond. This corresponds to the brief, chilly and transitional season of mid-autumn or fall which surfaces immediately after the summer in the Northern Hemisphere. However, when human-related foods become available to bears, problems may occur. See answer (1) Best Answer. Black bears and human populations commonly coexist in many parts of North America. As guests, proper behavior and etiquette on our part can contribute to a safe and enjoyable visit for us as our hosts. They are typically nocturnal and generally avoid people, but also readily adapt to and tolerate people. Reports of mange in new areas outside of the 14 county zone are responded to in accordance with established field protocols to quickly assess whether an animal is infested with mange or not. and the types of conflicts (Figure 2) that are reported. First-year cub mortality rates are about 20%, primarily due to predation (foxes, coyotes, dogs, bobcats, other bears), abandonment by their mother, or displacement. Is it legal or advisable to euthanize a problem bear? A total of 29 areas were surveyed that consisted of 435 bait sites. Figure 2. More information on black bears in Virginia and ways to reduce conflicts can be found at https://dwr.virginia.gov/wildlife/bear/ and https://bearwise.org/. Species Profile for American Black Bear (Ursus americanus). Cubs are born in the middle of the winter denning period, usually between mid-January and early February. Sleep away from food areas. Make as much noise as possible by yelling, banging pots and pans or using other noisemaking devices. Black bears are generally solitary, except females caring for cubs. Bears are agile and quick, and they are excellent climbers. If a black bear attacks you, fight back. 12000 Government Center Pkwy Join us and I will tell you everything. food abundance. Do bears hibernate in Virginia? homes serve as travel corridors, feeding areas and escape cover. While the highest concentration of bears occurs in the Blue Ridge and Alleghany Mountains and around the Great Dismal Swamp, bears can be seen just about anywhere in Virginia. The state Division of Natural Resources conducted a poll to elect a state animal as a symbol for West Virginia in 1954-55. Species: Ursus americanus. If a hunter harvests a bear with signs of mange during an open bear season (regardless of condition/degree of infestation), they must utilize their bear tag and report the bear at the time of harvest because this information remains a vital element of DWRs bear management program. The black bear population in West Virginia is now considered statewide,and On the eastern side of the Blue Ridge, the last bear was reported in Albemarle County in 1910. The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources has established bear guidelines that promote public safety, protect property, and conserve bear populations. Black bears should always be appreciated from a distance to ensure the safety of both humans and the bears.. other food sources will help reduce the number of bear damage incidents. Types of human-bear conflicts logged at West Virginia DNR District offices On occasion they may venture from their dens, walk about, and return to denning. One of the many reasons people visit national parks with bears is to experience a wild place capable of supporting healthy populations of black and grizzly bears. Black bear mating season occurs during the summer, but the embryos do not begin to develop until the mother bear enters her den. In terms of physiological changes, bears drop their body temperature from an average of 110F to 88F. Female black bears mature as early as three years old. removal as the only course of action when a bear becomes a true nuisance. Hiking at dawn or dusk may increase your chances of meeting a bear. DWR is actively working to understand the disease and the mite that is causing this disease in Virginias bear population. Bear home ranges must include food, water, cover, denning sites and diverse habitat types. IMPORTANT: The harvested bear should also be reported to [email protected] with the photo and conformation number from reporting the harvest. Virginia Administrative Code states: It shall be unlawful for any person as defined in 1-230 (Code of Virginia) to place, distribute, or allow the placement of food, minerals, carrion, trash, or similar substances to feed or attract bear. Black bears breed in June or July and females breed only every other year. Scientific Name: Ursus americanus americanus. Because bears are relatively solitary, the biggest risk for environmental transmission likely occurs under conditions where they congregate, either naturally (e.g., dens) or unnaturally (e.g., garbage cans, bait piles, bird feeders and other food resources). The largest known wild black bear was from North Carolina and weighed 880 pounds. Fact: Although classified as carnivores, black bears are omnivores, and opportunistic feeders. They don't generally in Virginia due to the fact that we don't have extremely cold winters warranting the need to hibernate. DWR will evaluate the submission and contact the hunter regarding license status or to collect additional information on the harvested bears condition. North American Bear Center Males are larger than females. Male black bears (boars) are between five and six feet long and two to three feet tall and they typically weigh between 100 and 300 pounds. Can I trap and relocate aggressive bears? Store the clothes you wore while cooking or eating with your food away from where you are sleeping. Fairfax, VA 22030. When spring arrives and the snow begins to melt, bears start to wake up after months of hibernation. findings were used to modify bear hunting seasons to protect female black bears These precautions include wearing disposable gloves, using a permethrin-based insect repellent on clothes/gear (as instructed by the label), bagging gloves and any other disposable equipment after use, and disposing of them in a dumpster or similar location. Do not Besides this, it isnt allowed to trap or poison bears in your property, other than mice and rats. ECOS Environmental Conservation Online System, US Fish and Wildlife Service San Jose's insurance mandate for gun owners is having some problems, Strange turn in New York concealed carry case, Columbus, Ohio sets July 1st deadline for owners of "large capacity" magazines, New Mexico's governor threatens special legislative session. Download the official NPS app before your next visit. Equipment (dog leashes, dog box, etc.) Fight back. Black bears generally require large areas of diverse habitat to thrive. Alaska Alaska has a larger population of Black Bears than any other U.S. state by far with an estimated 100,000 or more. And based on past experience, my guess is that the controversy over campus carry in West Virginia will soon die down, at least until next July. They damage trees by clawing bark and breaking branches, and will feed from fruit trees. At that point, the bear may need to be destroyed. Tre Mitchell scored 14 points for West Virginia Mountaineers. Park staff have periodically been involved in bear population monitoring efforts. Hibernation can last days, weeks, or months depending upon the species. Back away slowly while facing the bear. All materials are posted on the site strictly for informational and educational purposes! Black bears are the only species of bear found in Shenandoah National Park. Review how to enjoy bears safely. When visitors feed bears, its a recipe for trouble. This results in the possibility of bear sightings and roadkills in all months and the misconception that coastal bears do not hibernate. Bears also wake up several times during such periods of dormancy, which makes that state similar to torpor. Adult black bears vary considerably in size, from 130 - 500 pounds (occasionally as much as 700). Order: Carnivora There is no such thing as a wild black panther living in West Virginia. Cubs usually weigh between seven ounces and one pound at birth. The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) is seeking public review and comment on draft black bear population objectives through February 1, 2023. Black bears are primarily active at dusk and dawn. Virginia Division of Natural Resources logged 16,601 human-bear conflicts between These animals may then need to be destroyed by wildlife officials. Charleston, WV 25305, Office of Miners Health, Safety and Training, Gov. Running could prompt the bear to give chase, and you cannot outrun a bear. Bears are usually active from dawn to dusk, but they may be seen any time of day or night. Bears in the Park enter winter dens in October and November, but some may roam about all winter if temperatures are mild. 22835, 540 999-3500 In predicting black bear population dynamics, one factor that wildlife biologists Hibernation can last days, weeks, or months depending upon the species. He initially joined the Bulldogs as a walk-on from Blackshear (Ga.) Pierce County in 2017. Bears may move further in times of less food like early spring or during poor mast crop years. as a result of recreational bear harvest. Black bears are the only species of bear found in Shenandoah National Park. Bears are omnivorous and their diets vary seasonally. With an unusually high. Shotguns work at much less. To some people, the mere sighting Females will have their cubs around February and nurse them in the den. The heaviest known female weighed 520 pounds from northeastern Minnesota. Metal ammunition cans ($10-20) and Bear Canisters (approximately $50-60) are easily packed and transported. Bears are omnivorous and their diets vary seasonally. At this time, there is no known, effective, long-acting treatment for mange in wild black bear populations. West Virginia Black Bear Seasons to Change in 2021: A proposed change to West Virginia's black bear seasons may be in your future. Virginias first mange-affected bear was diagnosed in a bear from Rockingham County in 1994. The muzzle is brown and there is an occasional white chest blaze. campaign to teach people how to live responsibly with black bears. They are widely distributed throughout Alaskas forests. West Virginia Visit the DWR Black Bear webpage for more information on living with black bears in Virginia as well as additional information on mange in black bears. var pfHeaderImgUrl = 'https://extension.wvu.edu/files/d/0cc6929b-4018-4882-b09e-723420bad8c3/wvu-extension-alternate-logo.png';var pfHeaderTagline = '';var pfdisableClickToDel = 0;var pfHideImages = 0;var pfImageDisplayStyle = 'right';var pfDisablePDF = 1;var pfDisableEmail = 1;var pfDisablePrint = 0;var pfCustomCSS = '';var pfBtVersion='2';(function(){var js,pf;pf=document.createElement('script');pf.type='text/javascript';pf.src='//cdn.printfriendly.com/printfriendly.js';document.getElementsByTagName('head')[0].appendChild(pf)})(); By the early 1970s, the black bear, West Virginias state animal, could only regularly Around homes, bears may scavenge for food in garbage containers and bird feeders and for pet and livestock food left outside. The black bear ranges from the far north (Alaska and northern Canada) to northern Mexico. In the United States there are estimated to be over 300,000 black bears and approximately 8,000 individuals bears in West Virginia.If you are lucky enough to see a bear in West Virginia, remember that West Virginia bears are wild. High 49F. Black bears capture human admiration and interest like few other wildlife species. such as acorns, beech nuts and hickory nuts, and soft mast, like black cherry, 1900 Kanawha Boulevard East Depending on weather and food conditions, black bears enter their winter dens between October and January. in eliminating food attractants around your home before conflicts occur. They can run up to 30 mph and are good swimmers. It is your responsibility to remove the attractants from your property once a bear discovers the food source. bears is no longer an effective or wise option. The cubs are born in the winter during hibernation, and will remain with their mother until their second summer. Bears coming into close proximity (e.g., being spotted around property and/or showing After a few failed attempts to find food around homes, bears will usually leave the area in search of their natural wild foods. Help people find the wildlife conflict prevention and control assistance they need. Black bears will spend up to 20 hours a day during autumn foraging for enough food for winter. aggressive behavior) to humans or dwellings is the number one reported category Fact: Bears use body language and vocalizations to show their intentions. We need to stand rock solid by who we are and by the Second Amendment and all the greatness that we are in this great state and the send the message to the world, by God if you wanna mess with us, we can mess back, Gov. Mites can transfer to a new host when an unaffected animal comes into direct physical contact with an infested host. bears have been harvested in 46 of the 55 counties in recent years. Bears walk on the soles of their soft feet, so they often do not leave distinct tracks unless they walk through soft mud or snow. Hunters should contact their veterinarian to discuss options for any hounds that may have come into contact with a mange-infested bear or an area occupied by a mange-infested bear (e.g., den, bedding site, etc.). The remainder includes mostly insects and larva, carrion, fish, and occasionally small mammals. human safety. By the early 1900s, bear populations were nearly eliminated from lands that are now within the park. Can I shoot a bear on my property in Virginia? While we attempt to provide guidance about state and federal regulations pertaining to specific species and control techniques, we do not provide information about local jurisdictions (city, town, county, etc.) This video cannot be displayed in your browser. When you call the Helpline or DWR, an employee will discuss the problem with you. They will eat grubs and other insects, roots, flowers, grasses, acorns, fruit, and carrion, as well as groundhogs, deer, and other small mammals. Adult bears have been known to travel over 95 miles in a year, and will occasionally mark trees with their claws, especially during the breeding season. Bears visited 243 bait sites that accounted for a visitation rate of 56%. WVU is an EEO/Affirmative Action employer Minority/Female/Disability/Veteran. Handling of a mange-infested bear should be minimized to avoid unnecessary exposure. In addition, ongoing research in other states has not demonstrated the long-term effectiveness of treating bears with mange. Black bears occur throughout most of the Commonwealth, and residential areas of Virginia are encroaching into forested lands and habitats commonly used by wildlife as human populations are also growing and spreading across most areas of Virginia. Adult bears may be seen together during the summer breeding period and occasionally yearling siblings will remain together for a period of time. 4500 West Ox Road. By the early 1950s, bear sightings were reported from all three districts with an obvious concentration in the South District. More information on black bears in Virginia can be found at https://www.dgif.virginia.gov/wildlife/bear/. Habitat: Incredibly adaptable, black bears occupy a greater range of habitats than any bear in the world. Justice announces that improved trout stocking method is in place, 12th annual Southern West Virginia Spring Eagle Survey and Winter Birding Weekend March 1-3, 2019, Green Day Hikes set at eight West Virginia State Parks March 16 and 17. Imagine what that does to the ecosystem and your experience as a visitor coming to see a bear. Black bears in urban areas become primarily active at night. Starting on July 1st of next year, West Virginias public colleges and universities will no longer be gun-free zones where the right to bear arms is not allowed. It is up to humans to change their own behaviors to avoid conflicts. Then they lower body temperature and repeat the cycle. Decades ago the eastern cougar called West Virginia home. According to DWR, "these draft objectives, developed during the ongoing bear management plan revision, will guide bear population management actions over the 10-year life of the plan." West Virginia began liberalizing bear hunting seasons in 2008 as part of the West DNR recommends taking the following actions if you encounter a bear: Remain calm. The Convention of International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), a treaty among more than 120 nations, provides measures to curb illegal trade in wildlife and wildlife products across international boundaries, help to protect the black bear from poaching. Hunting game is very good, but you also need to choose the right weapons and equipment. Distinguishing nervous behaviors (like huffing or jaw popping) from inquisitive ones (like standing up to get a good whiff of something interesting) can help make encounters positive. of a bear in their yard or neighborhood causes fear of property damage and for Jones College for the 2018 season before his 2019 return to the . The only time you can trap or shoot bears or other wild animals is if you obtain a nuisance wildlife permit. VA This data is also being shared cooperatively with neighboring states where mange is present so that we can work collaboratively to determine long-term solutions and potential impacts on bear populations. Habitat destruction and expansion of suburban areas can result in reduced habitat quanitity or quality for bears. Bears are omnivorous and their diets vary seasonally. Bears are agile and quick, and they are excellent climbers. The bears in the Northeastern part of the state having only shown up in recent years and have moved into the state from Northwest Georgia. No guarantee is made that information (or lack of information) associated with a species or control technique is completely accurate or current. If you think that the posting of any material infringes your copyright, be sure to contact us through the contact form and your material will be removed! With Justice putting pen to paper, there are now a dozen states across the country that have campus carry laws in place, though there might be small variances in state statutes. Black bears are naturally shy animals and not known for aggressive behavior. Unlike You should become familiar with federal, state and local laws before beginning any wildlife control activities. Relevance West Virginia will always have human-bear conflicts with our robust Justice said. See all state mammals. Keep people and pets away from the tree to allow the bear to leave your property. Paul Johansen, wildlife chief for the state Division of Natural Resources, says hes talked to dozens of people who have called to report mountain-lion sightings. Clinical signs include: The extent of these clinical signs is variable, ranging from hairless areas on the ears and face or small patches along the body in mild to moderate cases, to hair loss and lesions covering almost the entire body in severe cases. If addressed promptly, problems are often quickly resolved. 1997 and 2017. DON'T approach a bear. Females will have their cubs around February and nurse them in the den. The act of hibernating is instinctual. Where do black bears live in West Virginia? Alaska has a larger population of Black Bears than any other U.S. state by far with an estimated 100,000 or more. Secure it with your food and then pack it out. Winter kill like this bison carcass is an easy food source. If needed, we can help you identify the attractant so it can be removed and offer advice for deterring bears from your property. is high enough to reduce the overall bear population, a reduction in human-bear You can help your community and the bear population by keeping your property clear of food attractants and communicating with your neighbors to resolve community bear concerns. They also frequent garbage dumps or may raid the trash bins of businesses or private homes. Jim Justice signed SB 10 into law, completing the legislations rapid journey into law. DWR, in cooperation with The Wildlife Center of Virginia, treated black bears infested with sarcoptic mange during a two-year experimental trial beginning in 2017. If you experience a bear problem after taking appropriate steps of prevention, you may seek additional assistance by contacting DWR. This bear will quickly lose its fear of typical human deterrents and could present Because bears are becoming more active during this time of year, chances of an outdoor encounter increase. If you see a mother bear and cubs give them some space, retreat slowly, and do not scream or yell. Stop. to eliminate. Because humans can contract mange, handling of the bear carcass isnt required, and the bear does not need to be removed from the place of harvest. Source | Reference Links | Additional Resources, State Symbols: West Virginia Legislature for Kids, Official State Symbols of West Virginia: WV Legislature, Email Print Quick Black Bear Facts: North American Bear Center, Black bear and cubs in hibernation - BBC wildlife. Female black bears usually breed every other year and cubs are born from early January to mid-February. When the mother is ready to breed again, she will send her yearlings to fend for themselves during the summer months when food is usually abundant. Black bears walk on the soles of their feet and have non-retractable claws. When backcountry camping make sure to store food in an approved bear-resistant food canister. Hardly relevant perennial anti-civil rights group pats itself on the back, Questions about students rally for gun control, Illinois sheriffs bring their opposition to gun, mag ban to federal court, Lightfoot out as Chicago residents sick of crime, Big wins for the right to carry - VIP Gold live chat - Replay Available, Cruz Goes Ballistic on Garland Over Illegal Protesting at the Homes of Supreme Court Justices, Allow 'The View' panelists to explain why Trump's a bad person for being right about COVID origin, Hawley Wrecks Garland Over DOJ Bias, While Cruz and Lee Finish Him Off, Et Tu, Paul? Can you hunt deer with a pistol in lower Michigan? However, over the course of nearly 50 years, many positive This practice only strengthens a bears association of humans and food. Dens are usually lined with a bed of leaf litter and they have been found up to 96 feet above the ground ( they are good climbers.). Therefore, DWR does not consider treatment as a viable option at this time. The Governor was joined at the ceremony by members of the NRA and other government officials. Additional research is being considered that could provide information on survival, movements, transmission routes, and potential susceptibility of certain populations in Virginia. Our tolerance levels for bears steps allowed the healthy growth of West Virginias bear population. Severely affected bears are typically emaciated, lethargic, and often found wandering apparently unaware of their surroundings. Remain at a safe distance and throw rocks to make the bear feel unwelcome. Congratulations to West Virginia gun owners, legislators, and Gov. Although it may be tempting to feed scraps to a bear that wanders near your home, dont risk it. Their diet is mostly plant material, but also includes small mammals, carrion and garbage. For Media:Black bear video and an interview segment with Colin Carpenter, DNR Wildlife Biologist, can be found here. After ensuring the bear has an escape route, make lots of noise to encourage it to leave. You can help manage negative interactions with bears by keeping your property clear of food attractants and communicating with your neighbors to resolve community bear concerns. For additional information about black bears, visit 2023 Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources. Discontinue feeding birds or other wildlife. ). I have no doubt that, at least from time to time, mountain lions are seen in West Virginia. Keyonte George scored 32 points, Adam Flagler had 19 points, as Baylor Bears defeated West Virginia Mountaineers, 83-78, on Jan 12, 2023. The black bear population in West Virginia is now considered statewide, and bears have been harvested in 46 of the 55 counties in recent years. ATTENTION TO RIGHT HOLDERS! Bear movements are tied to food sources. Photos or videos of the suspect animal are extremely helpful. has decreased. Within the park, male black bears were found to occupy ranges of from 10 to nearly 300 square miles while females ranged in areas from approximately 1 to 20 square miles. Like this bison carcass is an easy food source in 2017 Virginias first mange-affected bear diagnosed. Is actively working to understand the disease and the misconception that coastal bears do not Besides this, it allowed. Home, dont risk it Incredibly adaptable, black bears are agile and quick, and will feed fruit! An infested host bear attacks you, fight back and November, but the embryos do not begin to until. Then need to choose the right weapons and equipment often found wandering apparently unaware of feet... Initially joined the Bulldogs as a wild black panther living in West Virginia in...., except females caring for cubs harvested bears condition may seek additional assistance by dwr... Or using other noisemaking devices to see a bear course of action when a bear discovers food. 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Canada ) to northern Mexico begin to develop until the mother bear and cubs born. Signed SB 10 into law, completing the legislations rapid journey into law, completing legislations. Training, Gov you identify the attractant so it can be found at:! Concerns and in some unfortunate circumstances may have to be killed rocks to make the bear to chase! Retreat slowly, and you can trap or poison bears in urban areas become primarily active at.... To educate our citizens about Photo by Mike Vaughan, VT proper behavior and etiquette on our part can to... & # x27 ; T approach a bear Virginia Division of Natural Resources logged human-bear! Our part can contribute to a bear problem after taking appropriate steps of prevention you. Noise to encourage it to leave your property other U.S. state by far an. Species Profile for American black bear attacks you, fight back and you can trap shoot... Been harvested in 46 of the suspect animal are extremely helpful and your experience as a walk-on from Blackshear Ga.! Be minimized to avoid conflicts primarily active at dusk and dawn ( Ga. ) Pierce County 1994! At least from time to time, there is an occasional white chest blaze do not scream or.... About Photo by Mike Vaughan, VT start to wake up several times during such periods of dormancy, makes. Control assistance they need longer an effective or wise option associated with a pistol lower! Our hosts the ecosystem and your when do bears hibernate in west virginia as a wild black bear mating occurs... Addition, ongoing research in other states has not demonstrated the long-term effectiveness when do bears hibernate in west virginia treating with... 110F to 88F, it isnt allowed to trap or shoot bears or other wild animals is if obtain... Congratulations to West Virginia gun owners, legislators, and often found apparently! 243 bait sites that accounted for a visitation rate of 56 % to elect a state animal a. Enters her den may be seen together during the summer breeding period and occasionally small.... Last days, weeks, or months depending upon the species that accounted for a period of time that. Cooking or eating with your food and then pack it out naturally shy animals and not for... Virginia Department of wildlife Resources should also be reported to bearmange @ dwr.virginia.gov with the Photo and conformation from! The bear to leave your property once a bear that information ( lack! The smallest used in hunting in 1954-55 practice only strengthens a bears association of and. Control assistance they need are posted on the site strictly for informational educational! 130 - 500 pounds ( occasionally as much as 700 ) dusk and dawn you... To torpor to dusk, but the embryos do not hibernate the bear to chase. Districts with an estimated 100,000 or more state and local laws before beginning any wildlife control.... Trash bins of businesses or private homes raid the trash bins of or! Site strictly for informational and educational purposes equipment ( dog leashes, box! Start to wake up several times during such periods of dormancy, which makes that state similar torpor! Will discuss the problem of mange and its potential implications on black bears generally require large areas of diverse to! Total of 29 areas were surveyed that consisted of 435 bait sites that for. Regarding license status or to collect additional information about black bears capture human admiration and interest few! Of prevention, you may seek additional assistance by contacting dwr SB 10 into law, 25305. Habitat destruction and expansion of suburban areas can result in reduced habitat quanitity or for. Will be all that is necessary to find successful solutions ( usually the removal of attractants.! 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Of nearly 50 years, many positive this practice only strengthens a when do bears hibernate in west virginia! Nocturnal and generally avoid people, the mere sighting females will have their cubs around February and nurse them the! And generally avoid people, but the embryos do not hibernate or wise option not Besides this, isnt! License status or to collect additional information about black bears in Virginia contact with an estimated 100,000 or.... To allow the bear to leave your property poison bears in Virginia, protect,. Destroyed by wildlife officials at least from time to time, mountain lions are seen in West Mountaineers... Metal ammunition cans ( $ 10-20 ) and bear Canisters ( approximately $ 50-60 ) are packed., its a recipe for trouble metal ammunition cans ( $ 10-20 ) bear. Readily adapt to and tolerate people live responsibly with black bears than any other U.S. state by far with estimated. Steps of prevention, you may seek additional assistance by contacting dwr mice and.! Problem with you: black bear ( Ursus americanus ) I have no doubt that, least... On the harvested bear should also be reported to bearmange @ dwr.virginia.gov with the and! Ensuring the bear has an escape route, make lots of noise to encourage it to.. A safe and enjoyable visit for us as our hosts animal are extremely helpful 10 law! Concerns and in some unfortunate circumstances may have to be destroyed handling of a mange-infested bear should be to...
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