Bears Are Showing Up In Madison, Here's What Do Do

MADISON, NJ — This year, reported bear activity in New Jersey has tripled, and according to state officials, this time of year is active for black bears as they forage for food and get ready for hibernation.

Bear sightings have become more common in Madison Borough and surrounding communities such as Chatham Township, with one being seen yesterday in a Madison neighborhood.

While none of the spotted bears have posed a threat to any residents, it is important to understand how to behave when confronted with a bear, as they can be dangerous in rare situations.

Black bears by nature tend to be wary of people, but here are a few safety tips to keep in mind:

• Do not feed bears
• Never feed or approach a bear
• Remain calm if you encounter a bear. Do not run from it.

In response to an increase in bear sightings across the state, Gov. Phil Murphy has reversed his previous statement calling for the end of the New Jersey bear hunt. Reports of damage and nuisance from bears increased 237 percent between January and October, compared to the same timeframe in 2021, according to state environmental officials.

Read more: NJ Bear Hunt Begins After Court Rejects Animal Rights Challenge

Black bears have been spotted in all 21 counties of New Jersey.

However, according to state officials, the majority of the bears live in northern New Jersey, specifically in Morris, Sussex, Warren and northern Passaic Counties, as well as parts of Hunterdon, Somerset and Bergen Counties.