Bear Sightings Reported Throughout Lawrence Twp.: What Residents Need to Know

LAWRENCEVILLE, NJ - Officials in Lawrence Township have received multiple reports of bear sightings across the community on Tuesday.

This comes after a black bear was spotted near Mercer Mall on Monday.

Residents who spot a bear need to call the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection at 877-WARN-DEP (877-927-6337). The Township's Animal Control Officers are not equipped with the specialized tools or training necessary to handle bear encounters safely, and the state's Fish & Wildlife division does not respond to routine bear sightings, officials said.

Residents should call the DEP if a bear appears sick, injured, aggressive, or won't leave an area after an extended period.

Safety experts stress that human behavior plays a crucial role in preventing dangerous encounters. Residents must never approach, confront, or attempt to photograph bears, regardless of how docile the animals may appear. Feeding bears is also strictly prohibited.

The increased bear activity appears to be part of normal seasonal movement patterns, according to wildlife experts. These large mammals regularly traverse through residential areas as they move between feeding grounds and establish territories, particularly during certain times of the year.