MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — The West Virginia University Police Department has issued a Community Notice following the sighting of a black bear at the Core Arboretum Tuesday afternoon. Officers immediately responded and searched the area but could not find the bear.

Police ask anyone who sees the bear to call 911.

Experts from the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources have said black bears are rarely aggressive and attacks are very rare.

If you see a bear before it notices you: stand still and don’t approach. Then move away quietly in the opposite direction. If you encounter a bear that’s aware of you: don’t risk triggering the bear by running, back away slowly in the opposite direction and wait for the bear to leave. Always keep dogs on a leash, letting a dog chase a bear can lead to a dangerous confrontation. For cyclists and joggers, avoid using ear buds and remember you can easily surprise bears, be aware of your surroundings and make noise periodically.