Where are black bears in Virginia?
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.
Are there black bears in VA?
Of the three bear species (black, brown, and polar bears) in North America, only the black bear lives in Virginia. Shy and secretive, the sighting of a bear is a rare treat for most Virginians. However, bears are found throughout most of the Commonwealth, and encounters between bears and people are increasing.
How many black bears are in Virginia?
Current estimates put the Virginia black bear population between 18,000 and 20,000. The typical bear ranges from 175 to 400 pounds — some can be larger — and they can live for 30 years or more.
Do black bears in VA hibernate?
They generally hibernate curled up, protecting their faces — particularly their noses, which are a major source of heat loss. Black bear boars and sows without cubs may already have emerged from winter dens here in Virginia, and sows with new cubs should soon follow.
Can a bear tear off a car door?
All North American bear species have been known to not only be able to break into car windows but to be completely capable of tearing open doors and truck lids if they sense food on the inside. Their search for food is relentless, and the more you can do to minimize your car as a target, the better.
How can you tell if a black bear is near you?
Black Bear Sign
- Bear Tracks and Trails. 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.
- Scat / Droppings.
- Marking Trees and Poles.
- Straddle Trees and Bushes.
- Feeding Sign.
- Summer Beds.
- Winter Dens.
Can a black bear break a window?
Keep accessible doors and windows closed and locked. Bears have been known to break screen windows, climb up second or third story decks and even open sliding doors. Don’t use birdfeeders during bear season. Burn food reside off BBQ’s after each use and ensure the grease tray/can is empty and clean.
When do black bears in Virginia hibernate?
Black bears – the only bear species found in Virginia – are hibernators … but not like their northern cousins. According to the North American Bear Center, in northern Minnesota, where food becomes increasing scarce in the fall, bears begin hibernating in September or October and remain in dens until April.
What kind of bears live in West Virginia?
The black bear is the state animal of West Virginia. It is a member of the family Ursidae americanus, which ranges from Alaska to Labrador to Florida and northern Mexico. Grizzlies and polar bears, the larger North American members of this family, are found far to our north and west.
What do bears live in Virginia?
Bears in Virginia. black bears are omnivores, and can live in a wide variety of habitats. Source: Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries , Black Bear (Ursus americanus) Facts. Virginia has black bears, which range in color from light brown to dark black. There are no grizzly or polar bears in Virginia.
