Virginia Warning: "Brazen" Predator Spotted in Backyards
VIRGINIA - Residents from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the sprawling suburbs of Fairfax County are on high alert this winter following a series of brazen predator sightings in residential neighborhoods. While Virginia has always been home to black bears and coyotes, the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) and local law enforcement are reporting an uptick in predators showing an unusual lack of fear near human dwellings.
From the quiet cul-de-sacs of Northern Virginia to the rural reaches of the Shenandoah Valley, these sightings have triggered official warnings for pet owners and parents to remain vigilant during the shorter winter days.
1. The "Ghost" of the Blue Ridge
While state officials maintain that there is no breeding population of mountain lions in Virginia, unconfirmed reports of "large, long-tailed cats" have surged in December 2025. Residents in Bedford, Amherst, and Nelson counties have shared striking accounts of mountain lion-like predators prowling along wooded property lines.
Unlike the shy, elusive behavior typically associated with big cats, recent sightings describe these animals watching humans from a distance or crossing roads in broad daylight. Wildlife experts suggest that if these are indeed mountain lions, they are likely young males wandering thousands of miles from the west in search of new territory, making them more prone to brazen incursions into suburban areas.
2. The Return of the "Suburban" Bear
While most black bears should be settling into their winter dens, Virginia's mild start to the season has kept many active and hungry.
- The Neighborhood Watch: In Fairfax and Prince William counties, residents have captured doorbell camera footage of bears roaming across porches and even attempting to open "bear-proof" trash cans.
- The "Brazen" Factor: Officials note that these bears are becoming increasingly habituated to human smells. In recent weeks, bears have been spotted lounging on decks and wandering through backyard play sets, showing little interest in retreating even when residents shout or make noise from inside.
3. The "Apex" Coyote Surge
Coyotes are now present in every county in Virginia, but their behavior is shifting. Previously known as nocturnal "ghosts," they are increasingly being seen during the day in densely populated suburbs.
- Ambush Hunters: Local reports from the Richmond suburbs and Tidewater area describe coyotes "shadowing" residents walking their dogs or waiting near the edge of yards for small pets to be let out.
- Bold Behavior: Unlike their rural counterparts, suburban coyotes have learned that humans rarely pose a direct threat, leading to bolder behavior such as following walkers at a distance or refusing to leave a yard when confronted.
4. How to Protect Your Property
To discourage these brazen visitors from making your backyard their new territory, Virginia wildlife experts recommend the following:
- The "Bird Feeder" Ban: DWR recommends removing all bird feeders if a predator has been spotted. Birdseed attracts rodents and small mammals, which in turn attract coyotes, bobcats, and bears.
- Secure the Trash: Store garbage in a locked shed or garage until the morning of pickup. Never leave food scraps or pet food outside overnight.
- Clear the Cover: Trim low-hanging branches and clear away thick brush near your home. Predators rely on "edge" habitats to stalk prey, and removing this cover makes your yard less attractive for an ambush.
- Supervised Outings: Never leave small pets unattended in the yard, even with a fence. Many predators can easily jump or climb standard residential fencing.
What to Do If You See One
If you encounter a predator in your yard, do not run. This can trigger a chase instinct in coyotes, bears, and big cats.
Instead, practice "Hazing": make yourself look as large as possible, wave your arms, and shout in a firm, loud voice. You can also use a "shaker can" (a soda can filled with pebbles) or a loud whistle to scare them away. The goal is to reinforce their natural fear of humans and let them know they are not welcome in your space.
