Motorists also are advised to keep an eye out of bears crossing the road, especially in rural areas.

Florida wildlife officials want to remind you that Florida black bears are especially active this time of year.

“Now is the time to expect bears to show up looking for food,” said Dave Telesco, who heads the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's Bear Management Program. “If they can’t find food in your neighborhood, they’ll move on.”

Florida black bear mating season begins in June, and the large omnivores will be more active as they search for potential mates.

Mama bears gave birth to tiny cubs in January, according to FWC. Now the little ones are 5 to 10 pounds, and you may see them roaming with their mothers.

While black bears generally are not aggressive, they have injured people. It's illegal to feed the bears, and people should not approach them

"When walking dogs in bear country, keep them close to you – preferably on a non-retractable leash – and be aware of your surroundings," the FWC media release states. "Dogs can trigger defensive behaviors from bears, especially females with cubs.

The wildlife agency has these tips for keeping bears away from your home:

• Secure household garbage in a sturdy shed, garage or a wildlife-resistant container.

• Put household garbage out on morning of pickup rather than the night before.

• Secure commercial garbage in bear-resistant dumpsters.

• Protect gardens, beehives, compost and livestock with electric fencing.

• Encourage your homeowners association or local government to institute bylaws or ordinances to require trash be kept secure from bears.

• Feed pets indoors or bring in dishes after feeding.

• Clean grills and store them in a secure place.

• Remove wildlife feeders or make them bear-resistant.

• Pick ripe fruit from trees and remove fallen fruit from the ground.

Motorists also are advised to keep an eye out of bears crossing the road, especially in rural areas.