PHOENIX (AP) — Authorities are monitoring bear activity in southeastern Arizona after several sightings in the region this year.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department says a young black bear is suspected of blowing out an electrical transformer after climbing a tree last week near Duncan along the New Mexico border. The same bear is believed to have been spotted in the area on other occasions.

In a separate incident, the agency says a female bear and two cubs may have killed chickens on property south of Globe a week ago.

Other bears also have been spotted in the area.

Officials say bears are often attracted to populated areas looking for food. They say garbage should be stored in secured containers.

The department says fencing, lighting and dogs are not good long-term deterrents.