CLEVELAND — Black bears are causing a stir in several Ohio communities.  In just this past week, sightings have been reported in Willoughby, Hudson and Stow.

Black bear sightings have been increasing in Ohio since 1993. Ashtabula County has the most confirmed sightings with more than 200.

Jamey Emmert with the Ohio Division of Wildlife tracks bears throughout the state.

She said even though bears are intruding on our space, the truth is Ohioans moved into their space a long time ago.

“Prior to the date of statehood in 1803, black bears were really common in the landscape, as were gray wolves and mountain lions, so these animals were eventually extirpated because of habitat loss and over hunting and were removed from the landscape,” said Emmert.

Emmert said the black bears we’re seeing now aren't originally from Ohio. Many have actually just been kicked out of their homes by their moms in West Virginia and Pennsylvania.

“Mom tells him it’s time to get his own space. The mother will tolerate female offspring near her territory but male off spring are a threat to her future generations," explained Emmert. "So she will make sure they get far away and they will venture out looking for food, water, shelter or space."

According to the Ohio Division of Wildlife, these young black bears don’t realize how big and powerful they are, so they typically won't put up a fight, but here are some tips in case they stop by.

“They aren’t looking for a fight. They just want to get some snacks along the way, they want to take naps on the way,” said Emmert. "They’re scared of barking dogs and people clapping hands and that’s generally how we recommend people react if they see a black bear — clap your hands, raise your hands — raise your hands above your head to make yourself appear larger. Typically these bears are going to turn and run away."

While sightings usually taper off as summer ends, if you see a bear, you can report it at wildohio.gov or call local law enforcement.