Trap set up to catch bear in Estero neighborhood

ESTERO, Fla.- Neighbors in Bella Terra are on bear watch. They say a 300-400 pound bear has been seen roaming around looking for food in trash cans and walking right up to homes.

Florida Fish and Wildlife officials have now set up a trap. They put out marshmallows, pastries and cookies to lure the bear inside.

“When you’re sitting over here as a parent or a citizen, and you see a bear that’s roaming, it’s obvious that they’re not afraid of anyone. That certainly can be a scary situation,” said neighbor Bud Holler.

People living in the area have been taking videos and photos of the bear right next to homes.

“Since all the bear sightings, we don’t do as many walks back there. I don’t let them [children] go back there anymore by themselves,” said neighbor Peter LaBlanc.

FWC says it could take up to several days before the bear goes inside. They say a biologist will decide what needs to be done with the bear once it’s trapped and assessed.