NJDEP urges residents to secure trash, avoid feeding wildlife as black bear activity increases this fall
NEW JERSEY — The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) Fish & Wildlife is reminding residents to take steps to reduce encounters with black bears this fall as the animals become more active while preparing for winter.
Fall marks a period of heightened bear activity, when bears seek to consume large amounts of food to build fat reserves for denning season. Officials are urging property owners, hikers, and campers to secure garbage, clean outdoor grills, and remove other food sources that might attract bears.
“Black bears are opportunistic feeders and will consume whatever food is available,” said NJDEP Fish & Wildlife Assistant Commissioner David Golden. “They have a keen sense of smell and will investigate all potential food sources – natural or unnatural, including garbage. Property owners, hikers and campers can reduce the likelihood of unwanted encounters with bears by removing or properly securing any potential food sources.”
The department stressed that feeding black bears is illegal in New Jersey and carries fines of up to $1,000. Bears that associate people with food can become nuisance animals, causing property damage or posing safety risks.
Where Bears Are Found
Most black bears live in northwestern New Jersey, particularly in Morris, Sussex, Warren, and northern Passaic counties, though sightings have been reported in all 21 counties. Bears typically consume a natural diet of plants, berries, fruit, nuts, insects, and small animals, but they are also drawn to human-generated food sources, such as unsecured garbage or pet food left outdoors.
Preventing Bear Conflicts
NJDEP Fish & Wildlife recommends residents:
- Secure garbage in containers with tight-fitting lids or store them indoors until collection day.
- Remove pet food and bird feeders, especially at night.
- Clean grills and outdoor utensils to eliminate grease and food residue.
- Avoid composting meat or dairy products and promptly remove fallen fruit and nuts.
- Install electric fencing around crops, beehives, or livestock when possible.
Motorists are also advised to drive carefully and watch for bears crossing roadways.
Safety During Encounters
If you encounter a bear, NJDEP advises staying calm, avoiding direct eye contact, and slowly backing away while giving the bear an escape route. Making loud noises, waving arms, or using air horns can help scare bears off.
If a bear charges, it is often a “bluff charge” intended to intimidate rather than attack. Residents should stand their ground and not run. In the rare event of an attack, experts say to fight back.
Aggressive bears or property damage should be reported to local police or NJDEP Fish & Wildlife at 1-877-WARNDEP (1-877-927-6337).
Bear Education and Outreach
The department continues its “Know the Bear Facts” campaign, providing bilingual educational materials on bear safety through social media, radio, and community seminars.
For more information, safety resources, or to schedule a free black bear education seminar, visit dep.nj.gov/njfw/bears/.
