Bear spotted in suburban Phoenix neighbourhood

MESA, Ariz. – Wildlife officials believe a bear seen walking in a suburban Phoenix neighbourhood is back in the wilderness.

Arizona Game and Fish Department spokeswoman Amy Burnett said Friday tracks leading toward the Tonto National Forest indicate the young bear returned to its home.

Burnett says there is a chance the bear could return. She says people should not approach the animal if they do come across it.

Officials initially received reports Wednesday night of a bear at a Mesa country club.

The department shared video on its Facebook page of the animal walking along the sidewalk in a residential area.

The agency says the bear appears to be juvenile, had not shown any aggression and seemed to be steering clear of people.