If you think you've spotted a bear in the last few weeks,
researchers say you're probably right.
Experts at the West Virginia Department
of Natural Resources (DNR) say more bears are wandering toward developed areas
this fall in search of food.
They say that's because one of their
natural food sources is scarce this season.
Just this week, DNR researchers say a
large black bear was hit and killed by a passing car near the entrance to I-77
and I-79 in Charleston
They say severe weather patterns last
year caused the bears' current food shortage, causing them to move closer.
DNR researchers say they get about
800-1,000 complaints of bear sightings every year.
They say most problems can be solved
simply by putting your food and trash away.
