Hopewell Township officials have confirmed a report of an adult black bear roaming in the area of Maddock Road on Wed., July 2. Residents are urged to take standard safety precautions and secure their homes and properties.
To reduce the likelihood of attracting the bear, residents should:
- Keep all entryways closed and secure.
- Bring pets indoors.
- Remove outdoor food and water sources, including pet bowls and bird feeders.
- Clean barbecue grills and remove food residue.
- Store garbage in closed, secure containers.
Important Bear Safety Reminders:
- Never feed or approach a bear.
- Remain calm and make the bear aware of your presence by speaking firmly, singing, or clapping.
- Do not make direct eye contact; slowly back away instead of running.
- If a bear enters your home, create an escape route by propping doors open.
- To deter a bear, make loud noises (yelling, banging pots, air horns) and make yourself appear larger by waving your arms.
- Bears may huff, snap their jaws, or swat the ground as a warning. Back away slowly if this occurs.
- Standing on hind legs or approaching may be a sign the bear is trying to see or smell better—not necessarily aggression.
- If cornered or trying to steal food, a bear may bluff charge. Stand your ground, then slowly retreat.
- If a bear does not leave, move to a secure location and call authorities.
- In the rare event of an attack, fight back.
Families in areas with frequent bear activity are encouraged to create a “Bear Plan” for children, including tools like whistles, air horns, and predetermined escape routes.
To report bear sightings or concerns, contact the DEP’s 24-hour hotline at 1-877-WARN-DEP (1-877-927-6337).
More information is available from the NJDEP Division of Fish and Wildlife at: https://dep.nj.gov/newsrel/25_0013
Local Animal Control Contacts:
- Weekdays (M–F, 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.): (609) 537-0278
- Nights & Weekends: Hopewell Township Police Non-Emergency Line at (609) 737-3100
