On July 26, officers with Evesham Police responded to the area of Barton Run Boulevard and Jessica Court for a sighting of a black bear.
On July 26, officers with the Evesham Township Police Department responded to the area of Barton Run Boulevard and Jessica Court at 6:30 p.m. for a sighting of a black bear.
According to police, the bear entered the rear yard of a home, at which time the homeowner took a video of the bear.
Police say the bear was last seen going back into the wooded area behind the development. According to police, the department will have extra patrols in the area throughout the night and next few days.
According to police, The New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife was contacted and stated to police that the bear’s behavior was normal.
Police say the Division of Fish and Wildlife recommend not leaving trash cans out and take bird feeders down.
If the bear is spotted once again, residents are asked to contact the New Jersey Fish and Wildlife at (877) 927–6337.
More information can be found on their website at http://www.state.nj.us/dep/fgw/
Police also released the following safety tips:
If encountering a bear, remain calm and avoid sudden movements. Give the bear plenty of room, allowing it to continue its activities undisturbed. If it changes its behavior, back away.
If one sees a bear but the bear doesn’t see that person, detour quickly and quietly.
If spotted by a bear, try to get its attention while it is still farther away. The bear should know that it is encountering a human, so talk in a normal voice and waive arms.
Also, a standing bear is not always a sign of aggression. Many times, bears will stand to get a better view.
If pursued by a bear, throw something onto the ground, such as a camera, as it may be distracted and allow time for escape. Never feed or throw food to a bear.
If a bear charges, remember that many bears charge as a bluff. They may run, then veer off or stop abruptly. Stand ground until the bear stops, then slowly back away.
Never run from a bear, as they will give chase and bears can run faster than 30 mph.
Also, don’t run towards or climb a tree. Black bears and some grizzlies can climb trees, and many bear will be provoked to chase if they see someone climbing.
Should a bear attack, be loud, waive arms, and stand one’s ground. Also fight back, be aggressive and use any object at one’s disposal.
Only play dead if sure the bear attacking is a mother who is protecting its cubs.
If carrying pepper spray, use it. Begin spraying when it’s within 40 feet so it runs into the fog, and aim for the face.
