Piscataway Holds Name That Bear! Contest

Piscataway, NJ - Black bears have been sighted in and around Piscataway for the last several months and residents now report they're seeing one in particular on a near daily basis. That's why the township is holding a contest to name the bear, in conjunction with the township's 350th anniversary.

The bear reported most often has been described as approximately 100 pounds and considered to be about a 1-year-old by residents who have seen and are knowledgeable about bears.

“I think since he seems to like living in our community we should have a naming contest – it doesn’t seem right to continue to call him just 'Bear,'" said Piscataway Mayor Brian Wahler. "Maybe he knows it’s our 350th anniversary and wants in on the celebration."

Anyone who would like to submit a name for the bear should email suggestions to public.info@piscatawaynj.org. The 350th anniversary committee will choose the name and the winner will be featured in the fall issue of Piscataway News. The deadline for entries is Wednesday, July 6.

Residents are also urged to keep all garbage cans well secured. To report a bear sighting call the Piscataway Police Department at 732-562-1100.