New Jersey’s annual black bear hunt began this week, as the highest number of bear incidents continue to be centered in the state’s western counties but reaching into more suburban counties as well. The biggest jump this year so far was in Morris and Warren counties. Sussex continues to see the most activity overall.
Overall, reported incidents have risen more than 22% over the same period last year, although still well down from peak years a decade ago or more that saw twice the number of incidents. Incidents are defined as anything from sightings and overturned trash cans to physical damage and home entries. There have been no human or dog attacks this year, according to the state.
The hunt runs through this week for both archery and shotguns. Another hunt for only shotguns is scheduled for December. More information and the state’s extensive rules can be found here. Last year, 368 bears were killed in the October hunt and 86 in December, according to the state.
— Graphics by Brent Sanchez/NJ PBS
Courtesy: NJ Spotlight News