Bear Seen In Atlantic Highlands; Mount Mitchill, Lenape Woods Closed

ATLANTIC HIGHLANDS, NJ — There have been multiple black bear sightings in the area of Upper East Highland Avenue and Lenape Woods in Atlantic Highlands, police there announced Friday morning.

Lenape Woods, a popular hiking spot, and Mount Mitchill Park are both currently closed Friday due to the bear risk, said Atlantic Highlands Police. They posted this on their Facebook page at about noon on Friday.

"Please stay out of the woods and keep a look out for sightings," Atlantic Highlands Police wrote on Facebook. "Anyone who does not live in the immediate area should stay out of the area and residents who live in the area should keep a close eye out on the area. Use extreme caution and do not confront the bear if located."

Black bears are not aggressive, but any wild animal should be avoided. For years now, coyotes have been known to frequent this part of New Jersey (they killed several pet dogs in Middletown a few years back), and in late May 2017, Union Beach Police shot and killed a black bear that police say was causing havoc in Union Beach, running through backyards and in crowded residential areas. Union Beach Defends Police Officers Who Killed Bear (May 30, 2017)

If the bear is seen please call the Atlantic Highlands Police Department 732-291-1212, said police.