A Pennsylvania black bear found itself the center of attention Wednesday afternoon in Jim Thorpe when it was discovered meandering along Route 209, right past the intersection with Route 903.

Motorists began stopping along the busy highway to look at or take pictures of the bear, which had fled to safety off the highway and was located about 40 feet up a tree.

Police Chief Joseph Schatz said heavy traffic apparently scared the bear up the tree on the steep embankment above the highway. The Pennsylvania Game Commission responded but was reluctant to “dart” the bear because a fall would have resulted in its serious injury.

About four hours later, the bear made it descent, after which Game Commission officials handled its removal from the area.