Virginia game officials are advising residents that black bears are on the move, and people will need to keep food sources in their yards to a minimum to keep the critters from becoming visitors.
The Department of Game and Inland Fisheries says bears generally avoid humans but may wander into suburban areas in search of a meal.
The department says bears are most commonly attracted to bird feeders, garbage, compost piles and pet food. They also can be lured by outdoor grills, livestock food, fruit trees and beehives.
The department says household trash or anything that smells like food shouldn't be stored in vehicles or on porches or decks. Trash containers should be kept inside and taken to the curb only on the day of collection, not the night before.
