Black bears were here first, but wildlife experts say we've moved into their habitat and we should expect to be seeing more of them around.

Some of the neighborhoods in Grottoes haven't seen bears in years. David Kocka says they may be back, because the bear population is going up.

"Our bear population has been increasing for a number of years now. We did an intensive population research project and found that, despite our hunting seasons, our population has been increasing by three or four percent a year," says Kocka.

WHSV viewers have posted pictures on our web channel showing bears near their homes, even during winter months when bears are usually sleeping.

"We've had some cold spells. We get warm spells, some bears, especially big males, they'll hanker down when it gets real cold, but if it gets warm like today or tomorrow, they'll be out walking around," says Kocka.

If you find you have a bear wandering around your neighborhood, you can discourage it from sticking around. Kocka says to not give the bear a reason for being there, such as not leaving your trash out.

"The primary thing is removing any item out there that can be construed as a food for that bear. A couple things we get called about, pet food, bird feeders, gas grills," says Kocka.

If you do happen to see a bear, experts say a loud noise should scare it away.