If sightings of a black bear in the Pemberton Square Boulevard commercial area continue today, state officials said they likely will put out a trap.

Brad Young, black bear biologist with the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks, said it is hoped the trap won’t be necessary.

“We’ve had no new reports since (Tuesday) afternoon,” Young said, adding that he and wildlife officers hope the bear has found its way out of the developed area on its own.

If additional reports are received, however, a trap will be set and baited so the bear can be safely taken out of the city, he said.

Local 911 dispatchers received calls Monday and Tuesday that a bear was spotted near Taco Bell and Kroger supermarket. Young said photos and descriptions provided by citizens appeared to confirm the reports.

No property damage or threats to people or pets have been reported. Young said the bear is believed to be a 2- or 3-year-old male looking for a territory that wandered into the developed area. Anyone who spots a bear should not approach it, but call 911 or the MDWFP at 601-432-2400 or 800-237-6278.