Police: Beware of Bear in Butterworth

Capt. Rich Ferrone of the Morris Township Police Department advises residents that a bear has been seen on the western side of the township.  

According to Ferrone, "There have been several sightings of a bear this morning, July 7, in the Butterworth Section of Morris Township. Twice, it was reported to have been rummaging for food inside garages that were left open."

Ferrone said residents should secure their garages to avoid unwanted confrontations with the bear. 

No need to panic, though. Ferrone said that bears cross through this section of Morris Township "quite frequently" and "are generally afraid of humans." This particular bear, he said, has already been tagged and is now being monitored by state officials.

Residents do not need to call the police if they simply see the bear. "Police should be notified if the bear becomes aggressive towards humans or domestic animals or causes property damage," Ferrone said.

For more information on bears, refer to the Morris Township website or  NJ Department of Environmental Protection