RALEIGH, N.C. (WITN) - No one wants a 200-pound freeloader and state officials are giving tips on how to den-proof your home.

North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission is people to follow BearWise methods to discourage denning bears from choosing your home or property for hibernation.

The agency said to:

Close and lock pet doors, sheds, root cellars and outbuildings.

Check under porches and decks for areas and openings where bears might curl up. Barricade openings as best as you can, such as by installing plywood or fencing.

Don’t leave garbage, bird seed or feeders, or food meant for deer or squirrels where bears can access it.

Have a vacant home or cabin? Make sure to lock all ground level windows and doors and remove all foods and odors that could attract bears.

“Any building

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