ARLINGTON, Va. — Wildlife officials in Arlington County are urging the public to take precautions after a young black bear was seen in a neighborhood last week. Sightings have increased in the Rivercrest and Bellevue Forest neighborhoods, according to the Animal Welfare League of Arlington.
In a post on social media, the AWLA said animal control officers confirmed the June 6 sighting and immediately contacted the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) and Virginia State biologists. The bear appears to be healthy, and is likely a young male yearling moving through Arlington County in search of a new home habitat, the welfare league said.
This time of year, bear sightings become a more common occurrence in Arlington, and the AWLA is urging the public to remain cautious.
"Unfortunately in past bear sightings, we have had issues with members of the public going out in search of the bear to take their own photos or see it for themselves," the AWLA said. The league reminds the public that searching for a bear is extremely dangerous. If you see a bear, contact them immediately at 703-931-9241.
- Here are some recommendations to stay safe from the DWR:
- Secure garbage: Keep in a locked shed, garage, or inside until collected or use a bear resistant container.
Secure any compost piles - Take down bird feeders. For tips on attracting birds, not bears, click here.
- Clean up porches/decks: Clean grills including drip pans, remove any potential food sources, and remember a screened in porch is not a “secure” storage area from a bear’s point of view.
- Never leave food, trash, or pet food inside your vehicle
- Keep dogs on a leash at all times and ensure to check the yard before letting dogs outside into a fenced area
- Keep your garage doors closed at all times
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