Black bear spotted around Birkdale community in Huntersville

HUNTERSVILLE, N.C. — Huntersville police were alerting neighbors Thursday morning around the Birkdale community that a black bear had been spotted in the area.

Police tweeted around 8:45 a.m. that a black bear sighting was reported in the area of Northcross Drive and Bridgeford Lane, just south of Sam Furr Road.

Resident Ken Giese has never heard of a bear in the area.

“Anything is possible,” Giese said.

There were no photographs of the animal but authorities were reminding residents not to approach the bear if they see it.

They also said to make sure people's trash is put away and that pet food is not left outside.

Another black bear sighting was reported on Wednesday along Mount Holly-Huntersville Road near Kennewick Street, but it was unclear if it was the same animal.

Resident Christine Lang has not seen a bear near her home.

“I did get an email that said there has been a sighting of a bear in our neighborhood, but I haven't seen one yet,” Lang said.

Wildlife resource officers told people not to feed the bear and don't leave pet food out at night.

There's isn't an active hunt for the bear.

Police are leaving it alone, but if you find yourself in a dangerous situation, they said to call 911.

Cox Media Group