DEP wildlife experts stress that a black bear passing through a residential area should not be considered a problem, as long as it is behaving normally and not posing a threat. They offer the following tips to minimize conflicts with bears this spring:
-Use certified bear-resistant garbage containers if possible. Otherwise, store all garbage in containers with tight-fitting lids and place them along the inside walls of your garage, or in the basement, a sturdy shed or other secure area.
-Wash garbage containers frequently with a disinfectant solution to remove odors.
-Put out garbage on collection day, not the night before.
-Avoid feeding birds when bears are active. If you choose to feed birds, do so during daylight hours only and bring feeders indoors at night. Suspend birdfeeders from a free-hanging wire, making sure they are at least 10 feet off the ground. Clean up spilled seeds and shells daily.
-Immediately remove all uneaten food and food bowls used by pets fed outdoors.
-Clean outdoor grills and utensils to remove food and grease residue. Store grills securely.
-Do not place meat or any sweet foods in compost piles.
-Remove fruit or nuts that fall from trees in your yard.
-Properly installed electric fencing is an effective way of protecting crops, beehives and livestock.
-If you encounter a bear remain calm and do not run. Make sure the bear has an escape route. Avoid direct eye contact, back up slowly and speak with a low, assertive voice.
-Call the Millburn Police non-emergent number: 973-564-7001
Report bear damage, nuisance behavior or aggressive bears to the Wildlife Control Unit of the DEP’s Division of Fish and Wildlife at (908) 735-8793. During evenings and weekends, residents should call their local police department or the DEP Hotline at (877) WARN-DEP.