Bear Sighted Near Wall Twp Little League Fields
Police have upped patrols in the north Wall neighborhood where two residents reported seeing a bear Wednesday
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A bear sighted Wednesday night around a North Wall neighborhood has not been seen since, but police have increased their patrols in the area, authorities said Thursday.
Two witnesses reported seeing a 4-foot tall bear with black fur near the North Wall Little League fields around 5:15 Wednesday. Five officers conducted a search of the area but found no bear, Sgt. Steven Wolter said.
About two weeks ago another resident also reported seeing a bear in the neighborhood, which is near a wooded area at 2600 Belmar Blvd (Route 18).
Although bear sightings are rare, the township is considered a bear habitat by the state Division of Fish & Game, Wolter said.
If a bear is considered a nuisance, it would be tranquilized and relocated by Fish & Game, Wolter said. But so far, no additional sightings have been reported, he said.
Most bears will naturally shy away from people, Wolter said. If you encounter a bear, do not approach it but contact Wall Township Police immediately at (732) 449-4500.
JosephGhabourLaw
12:54 pm on Friday, October 19, 2012
A staffer who lived out West provided these tips:
– Never feed a black bear, either intentionally or by leaving food unsecured (not locking your trash in the garage until trash day).
– Do not approach bear cubs. An adult may be nearby to protect and defend the cubs.
– Back away from a nearby bear, even if it appears unconcerned with your presence.
– Do not run. Back away slowly. Talk loudly.
– A defensive bear will appear agitated and will often give visual and vocal warnings like swatting or stomping the ground, exhaling loudly, huffing, snapping teeth, or lowering the head with ears drawn back while facing you. This response may escalate to a charge.
They don't consider humans to be food, and essentially never attack people. If you're worried about bear attacks, we don't have grizzlies in New Jersey, and they are a hazard to humans.
bud
4:27 pm on Friday, October 19, 2012
That "bear" looks like it was won on the Point Pleasant Boardwalk!!! Give me a break.
bud
3:32 pm on Saturday, October 20, 2012
That "bear" looks a lot like Pablo Sandoval, the "Kung Foo Panda" of the SF Giants?