03/31/2026
It's time to be bear aware!
With the onset of spring, black bears are actively foraging for food and may wander into neighborhoods in search of an easy meal. NJDEP Fish & Wildlife is reminding residents to be bear aware by securing garbage and other potential food sources that can attract them. The following tips can help minimize conflicts:
• Secure trash and eliminate obvious sources of food such as pet food bowls, easy-to-reach bird feeders, and food residue left on barbecue grills.
• Use certified bear-resistant garbage containers if possible. Otherwise, store all garbage in containers with tight-fitting lids and place them along the inside walls of your garage, in the basement, a sturdy shed, or other secure area.
• Wash garbage containers frequently with a disinfectant solution to remove odors. Put out garbage on collection day, not the night before.
• Avoid feeding birds when bears are active.
• Immediately remove all uneaten food and food bowls used by pets fed outdoors. Walk dogs on a leash if you live in bear country and keep them indoors or in a secure kennel at night. For more tips on safety with pets, visit: https://dep.nj.gov/njfw/bears/pet-owners/
• Clean outdoor grills and utensils to remove food and grease residue. Store grills securely.
• Do not place meat, dairy, or sweet foods in compost piles.
• Remove fruit or nuts that fall from trees in your yard.
• Properly install electric fencing as an effective way to protect crops, beehives, and livestock.
Report black bear damage or aggressive bears to your local police department or to NJDEP Fish & Wildlife by calling 1 (877) WARN-DEP (1-877-927-6337).
For more information about living with New Jersey’s black bears, including what to do in case of a bear encounter, visit https://dep.nj.gov/njfw/bears/.
DEP Press Release: https://dep.nj.gov/newsrel/26_0012/
