Wildlife
Please Do Not Feed the Bears!
Residents are asked to be alert and watch for black bears as the bears forage for food ahead of their winter den season. Though most of New Jersey's black bears live in the northwest portion of the State, black bears have been sighted in all 21 counties.
Please take steps to secure trash cans and other potential sources of food. Bears that find food in residential neighborhoods may learn to associate people with food. These bears may then become nuisances that cause property damage, seek handouts from people, or become dangerous. Intentionally feeding bears is illegal in New Jersey and carries a fine of up to $1,000. Report black bear damage or aggressive bears to your local police department or to Fish & Wildlife by calling 1-877-927-6337. Find more safety tips and information:
- NJDEP: Know the Bear Facts brochure
- NJDEP: Know the Bear Facts For Kids (activity book)
- NJDEP: Bear Attractant Removal Checklist
- NJDEP: NJ Black Bear Education & Safety video
- NJDOH: Bear Safety Tips
NJ Agricultural Experiment Station - An Overview of White-Tailed Deer Status & Management in NJ
Be Tick Free - A Guide for Preventing Lyme Disease
3 DIY Deer Repellents - Better Homes & Gardens
NJDEP, NJDOT - Reminder for Motorists to be Alert During Mating Season
American Association of Feline Practitioners: 2023 Free-Roaming Cat Position Statement
Alley Cat Allies: Feral and Stray Cats: An Important Difference
American Bird Conservancy: Cats and Diseases