NEW JERSEY - If you live in Essex, Morris, or Passaic County, double-check your trash cans before heading to bed tonight. As of late April 2026, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has issued an urgent "Bear Alert" following a dramatic surge in sightings across North Jersey suburbs.
In just the last seven days, residents in Montclair, Roseland, and the Caldwells have reported bears wandering through backyard patios and near popular hiking spots like Mills Reservation. While bears are native to the Garden State ecosystem, their early spring emergence is catching many suburbanites off guard.
The "Spring Hunger" Surge
Why are we seeing so many bears right now? It's simple biology. After emerging from their winter dens, black bears are in a state of "hyper-hunger." They can smell food from over two miles away, and in the densely populated suburbs of North Jersey, that often leads them straight to your driveway.
Current Hot Spots (April 22–27, 2026):
- North Caldwell: Sightings reported near Deer Trail Road and Skyline Drive.
- Roseland: A bear was spotted near the Essex County Environmental Center.
- Montclair: Authorities confirmed a sighting near the busy Mills Reservation park area.
- Ewing: Even further south, authorities verified a young bear on Nursery Road earlier this week.
The "Do's and Don'ts" of a Backyard Encounter
The NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife emphasizes that black bears are generally wary of humans but opportunistic. If you come face to face with one, your reaction is critical.
DO:
- Make Noise: Speak in an assertive voice, clap, or bang pots and pans. If you have an air horn, use it.
- Look Big: Wave your arms or hold a jacket above your head.
- Back Away Slowly: Keep your eyes on the bear, but avoid direct eye contact, which they perceive as a challenge.
- Provide an Escape Route: Ensure the bear has a clear path to leave your yard.
DON'T:
- DO NOT RUN: This can trigger a predatory chase instinct. A bear can easily outrun a human.
- Do Not Approach: Especially if it's a sow (mother) with cubs or a bear that is feeding.
- Do Not Feed: Intentionally feeding bears is illegal in New Jersey and carries a fine of up to $1,000.
How to "Bear-Proof" Your Property
The most common problem New Jersey residents face is bears getting into garbage. To stop your home from becoming a "bear buffet," follow these DEP-recommended steps:
- Garbage Timing: Put your trash out on the morning of collection, never the night before.
- Clean Your Grill: Food residue and grease on outdoor grills are major attractants. Please make sure to store them in a secure shed or garage when not in use.
- Pause the Bird Feeders: The DEP recommends removing bird feeders entirely during the active bear months (April through November).
- Disinfect: Wash your garbage containers with a bleach or disinfectant solution to remove lingering food odors.
When to Call for Help
A bear simply passing through your yard is not considered an emergency and should be left alone. However, if a bear is acting aggressively, causing property damage, or refuses to leave, you should contact the DEP's 24-hour hotline at 1-877-WARN-DEP (1-877-927-6337) or your local police department.
Have you seen a bear in your neighborhood this week? Share your sightings and photos in the comments below—and remember to keep those trash lids tight!
Quick Fact: While they are called "Black Bears," their fur can actually range from blonde to cinnamon to dark brown. In New Jersey, they have now been confirmed in all 21 counties.
