New Jersey is home to a thriving population of black bears. While once primarily confined to certain regions, these adaptable animals are now present in all 21 counties. Understanding their behavior and the state’s approach to managing their presence is important for safe coexistence.
The Black Bear’s Return and Current Presence
The American black bear (Ursus americanus) is the only bear species found in New Jersey. Their population experienced a significant decline by the mid-20th century due to habitat loss and unregulated hunting. Protection efforts began when the state classified black bears as a game animal in 1953. Hunting was then prohibited from 1971 to 2003, allowing their numbers to slowly recover.
The resurgence of black bears in New Jersey is an ecological success. Factors contributing to this comeback include the recovery of forested habitats and the dispersal of bears from growing populations in neighboring states like Pennsylvania and New York. New Jersey’s environment also supports large litters and high cub survival rates, further boosting population growth.
From fewer than 100 bears in the 1970s, the population grew to approximately 500 by the early 1990s. Recent estimates indicate the population is over 3,000 bears, with projections suggesting it could exceed 4,000 by 2026. While black bears are now sighted throughout the state, the highest densities are concentrated in the northwestern counties of Sussex, Warren, Passaic, and Morris.
Safe Interactions with Bears
Coexisting safely with black bears depends on minimizing opportunities for them to associate humans with food. Securing food sources is a primary preventive measure. All garbage should be stored in bear-resistant containers or a secure location like a garage or shed, and only placed curbside on the morning of collection. Regularly washing garbage containers with a disinfectant can also help eliminate attractive odors.
Other precautions include:
Removing outdoor pet food.
Bringing bird feeders indoors when bears are active.
Thoroughly cleaning outdoor grills after use.
Avoiding placing meat, dairy, or sweet foods in compost piles.
Promptly clearing any fallen fruit or nuts from your yard.
Intentionally feeding bears is illegal and can lead to them losing their natural wariness of humans, leading to negative interactions.
If you encounter a bear, remain calm and do not run, as this can trigger a chase response. Instead, slowly back away while making the bear aware of your presence by speaking assertively, yelling, or clapping your hands. Make yourself appear as large as possible by waving your arms or standing together if in a group. Ensure the bear has an escape route and avoid direct eye contact. While black bear attacks are rare, if an attack does occur, fight back using any available objects and aim for the bear’s snout or eyes.
New Jersey’s Bear Management
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) Division of Fish and Wildlife manages the state’s black bear population. Their responsibilities include protecting wildlife and minimizing human-bear interactions. This management is guided by an integrated strategy.
The strategy incorporates public education, research, and population monitoring. Educational efforts provide residents with information on how to coexist safely with bears through presentations, brochures, and public service announcements. The state also uses techniques like trapping and aversive conditioning for bears that exhibit nuisance behavior.
The Comprehensive Black Bear Management Policy (CBBMP) outlines the framework for managing bears to reduce risks to public safety and property. This policy has historically included recommendations for regulated hunting seasons to manage the increasing bear population and reduce property and agricultural damage. The management approach aims to maintain a healthy bear population while addressing public safety concerns.