Spring Bear Sighting In Essex County: ‘Stay Clear,’ Officials Say

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — A bear was spotted in Essex County on Tuesday morning, authorities said.

According to the Roseland Police Department, there was a black bear sighting on the east side of the borough, near the Ridge Road Holmehill section.

“If you see the bear, please call police headquarters and stay clear,” Roseland authorities advised.

Essex County is no stranger to bears. In recent years, bear sightings have been reported in Montclair, Verona, Livingston, North Caldwell, West Orange, Bloomfield, Irvington, Maplewood and Millburn, among other places.

According to the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife, black bears are the largest land mammal in New Jersey. They are an integral part of the state's natural heritage and a vital component of healthy ecosystems.

Since the 1980s the Garden State's black bear population has been increasing and expanding its range both southward and eastward from the forested areas of northwestern New Jersey. Within the most densely populated state in the nation, black bears are thriving and there are now confirmed bear sightings in all 21 of New Jersey's counties, the NJDFW states on its website.

"The most common bear problem New Jersey's residents experience is black bears getting into their garbage," state officials say. "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."

To report a nuisance black bear, call the DEP's 24-hour, toll-free hotline: 1-877-WARN DEP (1-877-927-6337).

• See related article: With Spring Comes Bears: Are You Prepared In Essex County?

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