Black Bears

Black bears are the largest land mammal in the Garden State and live in forested areas throughout northern New Jersey. Here in the most densely populated state in the nation black bears are thriving in close proximity to people. Black bears are native to the state, but as land was cleared for settlements, timber and farms, and bears were killed indiscriminately, their numbers decreased and their range reduced to the most remote areas in the northern part of the state. The population recovered after being afforded the protection of game animal status and habitat improved as forests matured. Today, New Jersey's black bear population is increasing and expanding, as is the number of conflicts between humans and black bears. The Town of Clinton Police Department has officers, who have been trained by the NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife, specifically on how to handle black bear/human encounters.

If you are experiencing an emergency, nuisance or damage problem related to bears, please contact the Town of Clinton Police at 911 or (908) 735-8611 or the Division of Fish and Wildlife at (908)735-8793.

For more information involving Black Bears visit the NJ Fish and Wildlife Website.