Living in Bear Country

Reprinted with the permission from the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife

Things you should do:

• Proper storage of residential garbage is the best method for prevention of nuisance problems.  All garbage must be stored in airtight containers, in a secure area.
• Store garbage cans against the inside walls of a garage or basement or in a secure shed.
• Wash garbage containers at least once a week with a disinfectant solution to remove any odors.
• The outside feeding of dogs and cats should be done during daylight hours.  All uneaten food and scraps, as well as the food bowl, should be removed immediately after feeding.
• Birdfeeders should be suspended from free hanging wire so that the bottom of the feeder is at least 8 feet off the ground.  Feeders should be hung in daylight hours only, preferably between December 1 and April 1, when bears are least active.
• Black Bears learn very quickly.  Bears that associate food with people may become aggressive and dangerous.  This may lead to personal injury, property damage and the need to destroy problem animals.
• Please note that the mere presence of a black bear is not considered a problem.  If you are experiencing nuisance or damage problems related to bears, please contact the NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife's Wildlife Services Unit at (908) 735-8793.  Sightings can also be reported to this office.

If a Bear comes into your Yard:

• Remain calm.  Make the bear aware of your presence (by clapping or waving your arms).
• Do not feed the bear!
• Keep at least 15 feet away from the bear.
• Make sure the bear has an escape route.
• Yell, bang pots and pans, or use an airhorn to scare the bear away.
• Note that the bear may utter a series of huffs, snap (pop) its jaws, and swat the ground.  These are all warning signs that you are too close.  Slowly back away.
• If the bear will not leave, move to your car or a building, if available.  Notify proper authorities immediately if you encounter an aggressive or non-yielding bear.

Use common sense in a bear encounter - never approach the animal:

• If a bear stands on its hind legs or moves closer, it may be trying to get a better view or detect smells in the air.
• Black Bears will sometimes "bluff charge" when cornered, threatened or attempting to steal food.  Stand your ground, and then slowly back away.  Do not run from the bear.
• If you encounter a bear at close range, remain standing upright, avoid direct eye contact, back up slowly and speak in a calm, assertive, and assuring voice.
• To learn more about New Jersey's Black Bears, visit the Division of Fish and Wildlife's web site or The Bear Group.