The Bear Truth

It happens every spring. The weather finally begins to warm up and the critters wake up and wander out of the local woods and into neighborhoods. Some find them cute, while others find them terrifying. These critters include deer, fox, and bear.

Living in New Jersey, seeing wildlife out and about is a daily occurrence. Black bear now live in every county in the state. And unfortunately, human-bear interactions are on the rise. In 2014, a Rutgers college student was killed during a bear encounter while out with friends in West Milford’s Apshawa Preserve. That was the first human fatality in New Jersey due to a bear attack in over 150 years, according to New Jersey Fish and Wildlife historical records.

There have been other unfortunate interactions with bears and residents in New Jersey; most of the furry persuasion. In May, one dog was injured and another was killed in Sparta as a result of bear attacks. I’ve also heard of stories of bears breaking into backyard chicken runs or rabbit habitats.

Being Bear Aware

In reality, however, it is important to note bears are generally non-violent and do not seek out confrontations. They often eat wild berries, acorns, insects, bird’s eggs, and small mammals. They unfortunately also go after unsecured garbage for an easy meal.

Seems like Bugs lied to us. Don’t play dead. (Source: Bad Hare and a Bear; WB Kids)

The sad truth is bears are getting used to being close to people; dangerously close.

Like most humans, bears are not out looking for a fight. Now, do something stupid, and you will get a close-up experience with a bear and I can pretty much guarantee you will not enjoy it. So, let me list a few simple reminders as the weather continues to warm and people are out and about.

• Yes, bears are furry and cute. They are also wild animals. DO NOT try to pet them. Yes, I really need to say that.
• Do not feed them. Don’t leave food out for them as a way to invite them on to your deck. Keep in mind intentionally feeding bears is illegal in New Jersey and carries a fine of up to $1,000.
• Speaking of food, make sure your grill grates are clean after use. Bears have an incredible sense of smell and will definitely want to check out anything that smells interesting.
• Keep your garbage well-secured. A pilot programs is underway in a few towns where you can get a free bear-proof garbage can.
• If a sow is with her cubs, give her extra space! You know the term “momma bear?” People use it for a reason.
• Never corner a bear. Always give them an exit.
• NEVER turn your back on a bear. Just back away slowly.
• Never make eye contact with a bear. The bear may consider it as a form of aggression.
• NEVER turn and run! Again, slowly back away.
• If you come across a bear, make yourself look as large as possible. Yell, clap, whistle, etc. to let the bear know you are in the area so it is not startled by you.
• If you are going into the woods, keep a whistle and either Mace or bear spray on hand.
• Have I mentioned NEVER turn your back on a bear yet?
• If you are actually attacked, kick and punch the eyes, throat, and muzzle. Those of us that are Gen-Xers remember the Bugs Bunny cartoon we watched as children when Elmer Fudd played dead. It doesn’t work.

Seriously though, it all comes down to using the common sense God gave you. Keep your wits about you while out in the woods, or if you live near a wooded area where bears live. The New Jersey Fish and Wildlife website has an entire section devoted to bear safety in New Jersey. To report black bear damage and nuisance, call the DEP’s 24-hour, toll-free hotline: 1-877-WARN DEP (1-877-927-6337).

Enjoy the warm weather and stay bear aware!