| DEP
Urges Bear Country Residents to Be Aware
(04/34) TRENTON - Department
of Environmental Protection (DEP) Commissioner Bradley M.
Campbell urges residents of North Jersey to bear-proof the
areas around their residences to prevent bear intrusions.
As the weather continues to warm, black bears become more
active searching for food and mates.
"Knowing how to prevent bears from
coming close to your home is the first step toward safety,"
said Campbell. "One of the best ways to discourage
nuisance bears is by storing garbage properly. Bears come
out of their dens in spring and early summer so precautionary
measures must be taken now."
- NEVER FEED A BLACK BEAR! It's dangerous and against
the law.
Violators could face a penalty of up to a $1,000 for each
offense.
- Remember that reducing problems with bears is a community
effort.
- Invest in bear-proof garbage containers. Store all
garbage in airtight containers with tight fitting lids
in a secure area such as a basement, the inside wall of
a garage, or a shed.
- Wash garbage containers frequently with a disinfectant
at least once a week to eliminate odors. Draping bleach-soaked
cloth over containers will also help to eliminate odors.
- Put garbage out on collection day, not the evening
before.
- Do not place meat or sweet food scraps in compost piles.
- Feed birds from December 1, through April 1, when bears
are least active.
- Suspend birdfeeders at least 10 feet off the ground.
Clean up spilled seeds and shells daily.
- Feed outdoor pets during daylight hours only. Immediately
remove all food scraps and bowls after feeding.
- Clean outdoor grills thoroughly after each use. Grease
and food residue can attract bears.
- Report bear damage or nuisance behavior to the local
police department or to the DEP's Division of Fish and
Wildlife at (908) 735-8793.
To learn more about New Jersey's black
bears, visit the department's website at www.njfishandwildlife.com.
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