More bear sightings reported in Clayton during mating season

The latest sighting was reported June 20, when a young black bear was spotted in a wooded area near a greenway at Lombard Street and Amelia Church Road.

The North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission said it's mating season, and male bears are particularly active.

"Bears are not aggressive by nature," the post reads. "Because it’s mating season, young males are getting kicked out by their mothers and are moving out on their own to establish new areas and find a female. They often don’t know where they’re going and sometimes end up in urban areas."

If you see a bear in an urban area, it is just passing through, wildlife officials say. Steer clear of the bear and do not harm it.

So far, no one has captured videos or photos of the bears.

If you do see a bear, do not approach it, wildlife officials say. It is also important to secure your trash to reduce food odors or scraps outdoors.