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Ramsey County authorities are warning people in St. Paul's northern suburbs to be on the lookout for a black bear.

Reports suggest the animal has been spotted in North Oaks, White Bear Township and Polar Lakes Park, near the Tamarack Nature Center. It was spotted shortly after 6:30 Monday morning along Centerville Road near Greenhaven Drive in Vadnais Heights.

Ramsey County Sheriff's Office spokesperson Roy Magnuson said that it may be the same bear, and that large animals are occasionally spotted moving through the less densely populated parts of the county, particularly in the fall. He said the bear is unlikely to pose any danger, but people should use caution around any animal, and pick up any small pets or children that may get the animal's attention.

Magnuson said authorities would like to know if residents spot the animal. He added that people should take precautions and not leave out any items that may be attractive to a hungry bear.

“Call us,” Magnuson said. “Let us know. Stay away. Take your bird food down.”

It's the second time this year a bear has been spotted in the east metro suburbs. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources shot and killed a black bear in North St. Paul in April after it started to attract onlookers to the area.

The sightings come just days after a Maple Plain 

outside her family’s cabin on an island in Rainy Lake, just across the Canadian border.

Bear biologist Dave Garshelis of the DNR says attacks by black bears are extremely rare, and that no fatal encounters have been fully documented. He said there have been only seven people hospitalized in connection with bear attacks in Minnesota since records began in 1987.

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Tim Nelson

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Reports suggest the animal has been spotted in North Oaks, White Bear Township and Polar Lakes Park, near the Tamarack Nature Center. It was spotted shortly after 6:30 Monday morning.

Officials urge caution following bear sightings near St. Paul

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