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 Black bears’ natural lifespan is 20-30 years.- Black bears have roamed the forests of North America for centuries—long before Native Americans.
- They can hear better than humans, see in color, and have good vision.
- Adult black bears can weigh from 130 to 500 pounds. Their weight changes dramatically, sometimes doubling prior to hibernation.
- Humans are black bears’ main predators.
- Bear attacks are very rare, and have never been documented in Virginia.
- Black bears are omnivores, feasting on grass, plant growth, berries, insects and fish.
- Black bears love to eat human food and don’t mind digging through garbage to get to it.
Living in harmony with black bears
Urbanization and encroachment in bear habitat is a main reason for increased encounters with bears. People living in such areas can take preventative measures to decrease problems with bears. Lethal management is not the answer.
- Dissuade bears from wandering near your home by eliminating their access to food sources.
- Keep garbage cans in an enclosed area. Do not put garbage out until the morning of pick-up and keep lids on cans to avoid broadcasting smells to bears and other animals.
- Keep your animal companions indoors. Do not leave pet food outdoors.
- Plant crops away from timber stands and brush. Remove beehives from wooded areas.
- Use heavy fencing to keep bears from fruit trees, berries patches, and garden crops.
- Deter bears with barking dogs, loud music, bright lights, fireworks, and other loud noises combined with a variety of visually shocking phenomena.
- Thoroughly clean outdoor grills after use
- Fill bird feeders only through the winter months. Be aware that feeding birds and squirrels can attract black bears and other animals.
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