Beware of bears: Virginia game officials warn residents of increased bear sightings

The Department of Wildlife Resources is cautioning Virginia residents to become BearWise as the animals wake up from spring hibernation to find an easy meal.

The agency’s Wildlife Conflict Helpline received nearly 2,300 calls from homeowners last year involving problems or damage from bears including rummaging through unsecured trash and munching on bird and chicken feed placed in birdfeeders and barns.

Game officials recommend placing trash and livestock feed inside a locked receptacle or bear-proof can, discarding birdfeeders, cleaning up porches and decks including removal of all food residue from outdoor grills and never leaving food sources inside your vehicle.