Much to the surprise of residents living in Mosby Court, a 200 pound black bear was caught overnight in their neighborhood. The Department of Game and Inland Fisheries said animals are seen more at this time of year because they are forced out of their habitat.
These animals have to survive and find their own home, and they could wind up most anywhere – even miles away from the wild, in the concrete jungle.
Wildlife biologist Aaron Proctor said they managed to capture the bear using thermal imaging, before sedating it.
Once tranquilized, Proctor said he and his co-workers took the bear to a safe place to spend the night and for observation.
He was watched overnight, offered water, quick starches and carbohydrates like jelly, jam, and apples. The bear was evaluated to make sure he’s alert and on all four legs, checked for injuries again.
Tuesday morning, officials said the bear’s physical evaluation went well, and he was released in a remote area of southeast Virginia where there is a healthy black bear population.
Proctor urged people to take these steps if they make contact with a black bear.
"The biggest thing for people to realize is to remain calm, go inside. If you have the ability, bring all of your pets and food items inside. No trash cans, no bird seeds...anything a bear would eat. A lot of times what keeps bears around populated areas is food items. Things that smell good."
