State Troopers Rescue Abandoned Bear Cub Found Alone in Roadside Ditch

On 1 April 2023, an unusual incident unfolded in New Jersey when state troopers were called to assist a bear cub discovered alone in a roadside ditch. Officers from Troop B of Perryville Station responded to reports of the young animal near milepost 12.2 on the Eastbound side of Interstate 78 in Union Township, around 1:30 p.m.

Upon arrival, the troopers found the small bear cub in a vulnerable state, seemingly in need of immediate help. A statement shared on the New Jersey State Police’s Facebook page confirmed that the troopers safely secured the animal and transported it back to their barracks. Following this, the cub was handed over to the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) for proper care.

The police expressed relief at the swift action taken by their personnel, stating, “Thanks to the swift response of the troopers, the cub is now safe and receiving the attention he needs.” Photographs shared by the force showcased the bear cub, one image showing a trooper with the animal, while another depicted the bear peeking out from within a police vehicle.

Social media users quickly reacted to the heartwarming rescue, sharing their delight at the sight of the small bear. One commenter jokingly suggested that the cub could be a new recruit for the K9 unit, indicating the public’s affection for the adorable creature.

Black bears, which are native to New Jersey, inhabit all 21 counties within the state. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection has previously cautioned residents about attracting bears into residential areas by leaving accessible food or rubbish outdoors. They emphasise that bears, known for their intelligence, can quickly associate humans with food when they are fed either intentionally or unintentionally. Such associations can potentially lead to problematic encounters, with aggressive bear behaviour often resulting in extreme measures being taken, including destruction.

In their ongoing public education efforts, the DEP advises that anyone who spots young wildlife such as deer, birds, rabbits, or raccoons should avoid disturbing the animals. They remind the public that young wildlife may seem abandoned; however, the mother animal is often not far away and will return when it feels safe.

In cases where individuals suspect wildlife to be injured or truly abandoned, the DEP urges the public to contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator or local animal control authorities for guidance. They highlight that it is illegal for anyone not holding a valid Wildlife Rehabilitation Permit to keep or handle injured, orphaned, or ill wildlife.

While this bear cub’s all-too-brief moment of solitude was interrupted by police, it serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between local wildlife and human habitation in New Jersey. As the cub receives the care it needs, it is hoped that further incidents of wildlife intrusion can be avoided by raising awareness about the appropriate measures to take when encountering wild animals.