Black Bear Spotted In Aldie: LCSO

ALDIE, VA—Before the snow began in earnest last weekend, a black bear was spotted climbing a tree in the area, according to the Loudoun County Sheriff's Office. No real shocker, there, but as Loudoun County Animal Services points out: "Bears live in Loudoun County year round, and prefer to avoid human interaction. If you see a bear, please give them space so that they can go about their business and stay out of yours!"

Here are some tips from the Virginia Department of Game & Inland Fisheries:

Bears are attracted to food sources in residential areas. But with some simple steps, you can reduce the chances of bears making repeated visits to your neighborhood or property.

• Secure your garbage in bear resistant trash cans or store it in a secure building.
• Keep your grill clean.
• Remove bird feeders if a bear is in the area.
• Don’t put meat scraps in your compost pile.
• Don’t leave pet food outdoors.
• Make sure your neighbors are following the same recommendations.

After a few failed attempts to find food around homes, bears will usually leave the area in search of natural wild foods. If necessary, VDGIF can help you identify additional attractants that you may have on your property.

In almost all cases, a black bear will detect you and leave the area before being noticed. However, if you do encounter a bear, here are some suggestions:

• Do not run. Running could prompt the bear to chase. If in a group, stay together and make sure that your dog stays leashed.
• If the bear hasn’t seen you, calmly leave the area, while making a bit of noise so the bear will not be surprised by you.
• If the bear has seen you, back away slowly while facing the bear. Speaking softly may also let the bear know you mean no harm.
• In the unlikely event that a black bear attacks you, fight back. Black bears have been driven away with rocks, sticks and even bare hands.

Photos: Loudoun County Sheriff's Office