Virginia is home to black bears, including areas like Fairfax County. While not commonly seen, reports of bear sightings increase in spring and summer as bears search for food in residential neighborhoods.
Black bears and their cubs emerge from hibernation between March and May. Though they typically avoid humans, the scent of food can draw them into populated areas. Common attractants include bird feeders, garbage, outdoor pet food, compost piles, fruit trees, beehives, and berry-producing shrubs.
The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources advises residents to take preventive measures to deter bears. These include securing garbage in bear-resistant containers or storing it indoors until collection day. Bird feeders should be removed if a bear is nearby and kept down for several weeks. Residents are also advised to keep grills clean, avoid putting meat scraps in compost piles, store pet food indoors, and collaborate with neighbors on these precautions.
In case of a bear sighting, the department suggests maintaining a safe distance and giving the animal space to escape. Running from a bear could provoke a chase; instead, people should back away slowly while facing the bear. If approached by a bear showing signs of discomfort—such as huffing or ground-stomping—residents are advised to respect its space.
Feeding bears is illegal in Virginia on both public and private lands. Conflicts with bears should be reported to the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources via their helpline at 855-571-9003. The Fairfax County Animal Protection Police generally do not remove bears unless they pose a threat or are injured.
For more information on living safely with bears, resources are available through the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources and BearWise.org.
