Butler Township police are asking residents in the area of Dutchtown Village and September Drive to put away bird feeders and secure food and trash after a recent nearby sighting of a black bear and three cubs.

The police department is alerting residents to be vigilant for bears, to prevent any harm to people or their pets, according to a Sunday, May 12, news release from the township police.

People and pets should not approach bears if spotted in the area, police said.