Bears are on the move across the state

BECKLEY, WV (WVNS) — West Virginia’s black bear population is on the move as their mating season begins.

Black bear mating season happens each year starting in late spring and it lasts until the early summer months. While bears might seem cute and approachable to some, it is important to keep in mind they can be dangerous creatures – especially during mating seasons.

Colin Carpenter, Black Bear Project Leader for the Region 4 Division of Natural Resources, said the bears are active across the state right now.

“Bear breeding season does begin typically around this time of year, so the months of June and July are when bears actually mate,” said Carpenter. “The females won’t have cubs until January. This is when the mating is taking place. Bears are on the move right now searching for mates.”

Carpenter said yearling bears are also looking for new territory right now. If you encounter a bear, do not approach the animal. You should leave the bear alone and report it to your local DNR branch. Also, you should never feed bears.

In the event of the worst-case scenario where you are attacked by a black bear, Carpenter said you should fight back.

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