It’s that time of year again, bears are up from hibernation and looking for food.

A black bear with cubs was spotted near Appian Way in Dartmouth.

The Department of Natural Resources says the bear has not come in contact with any people and is asking area residents to be aware of your surroundings, keep pets on leashes and avoid attracting bears with food.

Tips if you see a black bear:

✔stay calm
✔slowly back away
✔do not run or make sudden movements
✔report bears to your nearest Department of Natural Resources and Renewables office.

Most attacks by black bears are defensive reactions to a person who is too close and they rarely attack humans.