By Sarah Tate Jun 9, 2021 Black bears may seem cute and relaxed from far away, but they can attack if you get close. That's why wildlife officials are warning hikers of increased bear sightings in the North Carolina forest. While bears will rummage for food leftover by hikers and passing campers, there have been recent reports of them stealing food and backpacks from trails in North Carolina, WSOC reports. As the weather gets warmer and more people make their way onto trails, the bears have been known to linger in the area for days, hoping to find food that has been left behind.