Plus, tips on what to do if you see a bear. SOUTH JERSEY — Black bears were spotted in Gloucester and Burlington counties during the past few months, police said.
What counties in NJ have bears?
In New Jersey, excellent bear habitat is found primarily within Sussex, Passaic, Warren and Morris counties. However, as the bear population increases, black bears are expanding their range both east and south.
Does New Jersey have a bear problem?
The most common bear problem New Jersey’s residents experience is black bears getting into their garbage. Bears are attracted to neighborhoods by garbage odors, so properly securing your garbage is one of the best ways to prevent bears from becoming a nuisance in your community.
Are there bears in the NJ Pine Barrens?
The Pine Barrens lost its top predators black bears, cougars and wolves, long ago to hunting and trapping, though black bears are still seen occasionally. Large mammals are now restricted to white-tailed deer, coyotes, the rare bobcat, beavers and reclusive river otters.
Should I report a bear sighting in NJ?
Black Bear Activity Reports
To report black bear damage and nuisance, call the DEP’s 24-hour, toll-free hotline at 1-877-WARN DEP (1-877-927-6337).
How do you tell if there is a bear in the area?
Black Bear Sign
- Bear Tracks and Trails. Bears walk on the soles of their soft feet, so they often do not leave distinct tracks unless they walk through soft mud or snow.
- Scat / Droppings.
- Marking Trees and Poles.
- Straddle Trees and Bushes.
- Feeding Sign.
- Summer Beds.
- Winter Dens.
Are there mountain lions in NJ?
None of them inhabit our state. But the most common sighting of a species that, according to state wildlife officials, does not exist in NJ is the mountain lion.
What to do if a bear comes in your yard?
Never run away from or approach him. Make yourself look as big as possible by spreading your arms or, better yet, a coat. Make as much noise as possible by yelling, banging pots and pans or using other noisemaking devices. If the bear approaches and you have bear spray, spray the bear as he approaches.
Are there wolves in New Jersey?
While there are no wolves in the wild in New Jersey, we are home to a variety of hybrids. Coywolves are coyote-wolf hybrids that are around twice the size of coyotes, with larger jaws and bigger muscles. Wolfdogs are wolf-dog hybrids and can be kept as pets in the Garden State.
What do you do if you see a black bear in NJ?
Stand your ground, avoid direct eye contact, then slowly back away and do not run. Pairs or groups of people should stay together and perform these actions as a unit when they encounter a bear; do not separate and do not move in different directions. If the bear does not leave, move to a secure area.
Are there bears in Toms River NJ?
A bear or bears have been spotted in Barnegat, Lakewood, Little Egg Harbor, Stafford and Toms River.
Where are wolves located in NJ?
There are no wolves in the wild in NJ, but you can visit them in captivity. Reintroduction programs are being implemented and captive wolves in zoos, and wolf research centers are being maintained to insure that the genetic purity of wolf species is preserved.
Where is bobcat Alley in NJ?
Located in The Conservancy’s “Bobcat Alley” between the Blair Creek and Johnsonburg Swamp Preserves, along the Sussex and Warren county line, the new Elizabeth Merck Preserve will help connect New Jersey’s Highlands to the Delaware River providing critical wildlife habitat and protecting water resources in the Paulins
What to do if a bear stalks you?
Cover your head and neck with your hands and arms. Lay flat on your stomach, and spread your legs apart. Keep your pack on, it will help protect you during an attack. Stay still and don’t make any noise—you’re trying to convince the bear that you aren’t a threat to it or its cubs.
What to do if a black bear is on your porch?
Discourage the Bear
From an open window or a safe place on your porch or deck, yell at the bear, bang pots and pans, and do your best to let it know it’s not welcome around your home. DO NOT let your dog out or let your dog chase the bear.
Can you smell If a bear is in the area?
Untrue: Most of the time bears smell clean and fresh. A high compliment would be to say someone has bear breath. People who actually smell bear breath usually say it has no odor.
What smell does bears hate?
pine
Bears also dislike the strong scent of pine-based cleaners, but avoid using anything with a fresh, lemony or fruity smell. And never mix bleach and ammonia; the combination produces fumes that can be deadly to both people and bears.
Will a bear stop if you stand your ground?
Do NOT run, but if the bear follows, stop and hold your ground. Bears can run as fast as a racehorse both uphill and down. Like dogs, they will chase fleeing animals. Do NOT climb a tree.
What time of day are you most likely to see a black bear?
Bear Behavior
Bears are most active during early morning and late evening hours in spring and summer.
Are there black Panthers in New Jersey?
It couldn’t be a big cat such as a panther because the only wild cat indigenous to New Jersey is the bobcat, which are a bit bigger than the average domestic cat but much smaller than a cougar, authorities noted.
Are there moose in NJ?
Yes. While the Eastern Moose typically ranges throughout Eastern Canada, New England and northern New York, there have also been moose sightings in New Jersey and Pennsylvania.