4/30/2014 - NJDEP Offers Tips to Reduce Conflicts & Encounters with Black Bears

During active spring period and due to the severity of winter, bears are more actively search for food.  Black bears have been emerged from winter dens and are entering a very active period of the year throughout New Jersey in search of food and mates, which makes encounters with humans more likely, according to DEP biologists.

Report bear damage, nuisance behavior or aggressive bears to the Wildlife Control Unit of the DEP's Division of Fish and Wildlife at (909) 735-8793.  During evenings and weekends, residents should call their local police department or the DEP Hotline at (877) WARN-DEP.

To learn more about New Jersey's black bears and ways to avoid problems with them, visit

Bear Education

Bear Facts - avoid encounters