Bear Spotted Near Reston: Report

RESTON, VA — A bear has been spotted near Reston recently, and Fairfax County Police say they've had "several reports" of bear sightings in the county, both at parks and in residential neighborhoods.

RestonNow reported that a bear had been spotted in the Stuart Ridge community, which is technically in Herndon but near Lake Newport Road.

Fairfax County Police say that bears had specifically been spotted in the Roberts Road and Sideburn Road corridors in Fairfax, but there had been multiple reports throughout the county since the spring.

"Bears typically avoid humans, but may wander into suburban areas in their search for food," police said on their Facebook page. "Bears can cause serious property damage and if they lose their fear of humans and pose public safety concerns, they may have to be destroyed. If you encounter or see a bear, do not approach it. Back away slowly and ensure it has an escape route. If a bear huffs or 'woofs,' clacks its teeth, growls or slaps the ground, it is warning you that you are too close."

It's a good idea to remove food sources from your yard, such as birdfeeders, garbage, and pet food left outside.

"Never feed a bear under any circumstances. In Virginia, it is illegal to feed bears on both public and private lands," police say. "Help us keep our communities safe and our wildlife wild by doing your part to remove attractants on your property."

Image via FCPD