Residents Alerted to Recent Bear Sightings

With the weather turning warmer, the frequency of bear sightings across the area has also increased.

Lawrence Township sent out an alert this week asking residents to be mindful of recent bear sightings in the area. The Lawrence Township Health Department was notified of bear sightings in the vicinity of Route One between Interstate 295 and Texas Avenue. 

The health department advises residents to keep the following precautions in mind if a black bear is sighted:

• If you encounter a bear, remain calm and do not run. Make sure the bear has an escape route. Avoid direct eye contact, back up slowly and speak with a low, assertive voice.
• Black bear attacks are extremely rare. If a black bear should attack, fight back. Do not play dead.

Report bear damage, nuisance behavior or aggressive bears to the Wildlife Control Unit of the D.E.P.’s Division of Fish and Wildlife at 908-735-8793. During evenings and weekends, call local police or the NJDEP hotline at 877-WARN DEP.

To learn more about New Jersey’s black bears, visit www.njfishandwildlife.com/bearinfo.htm