WVU Issues Community Alert After Black Bear Spotted Near Morgantown Campus
West Virginia University (WVU) has issued a community alert following multiple black bear sightings near its Morgantown campus. The warning comes after students and local residents reported seeing a bear in wooded areas adjacent to campus buildings and residential neighborhoods.
According to university officials, the bear was last seen roaming near the Core Arboretum, a natural area popular among students for hiking and relaxation. The WVU Police Department and the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (DNR) are closely monitoring the situation and urging people to exercise caution.
WVU emphasized that while black bears are generally not aggressive, they can become dangerous if approached, cornered, or if food is involved. In their statement, university officials advised students and staff to avoid wooded trails during early morning and late evening hours and to refrain from leaving food or trash outside.
“Safety is our top priority,” said a WVU spokesperson. “We are working with wildlife experts to ensure the bear is safely relocated, and we encourage everyone to remain alert and follow guidelines for coexisting with wildlife.”
The university also shared resources on how to respond if confronted by a bear. These include making noise to avoid surprising the animal, backing away slowly if a bear is encountered, and never running or attempting to feed it.
This incident serves as a reminder that Morgantown’s proximity to natural habitats means wildlife encounters are possible, especially in the warmer months. Students and residents are encouraged to report sightings immediately to campus police or the DNR.
WVU is continuing to monitor the situation and will provide updates as needed. In the meantime, the university urges the community to stay informed and take necessary
precautions.
