Black Bear Spotted in Verona

A black bear was spotted in the area near Crestmont and Witherspoon roads during mid-afternoon Monday, Verona Police said.

According to a statement issued by the department, the bear was seen east of Pompton Ave near the Montclair border and appeared to be moving north toward Cedar Grove.

Police are warning residents to stay clear of the bear. While black bears tend to avoid humans, the department said the following tips can help people better ensure their safety: 

• If a bear enters your home, provide it with an escape route by propping all doors open. 
• Avoid direct eye contact and never run from a bear. Instead, slowly back away. 
• To scare the bear away, make loud noises by yelling, banging pots and pans or using an air horn. Make yourself look as big as possible by waving your arms. If you are with someone else, stand close together with your arms raised above your head. 
• The bear may utter a series of huffs, make popping jaw sounds by snapping its jaws and swat the ground. These are warning signs that you are too close. Slowly back away, avoid direct eye contact and do not run. 
• If a bear stands on its hind legs or moves closer, it may be trying to get a better view or detect scents in the air. It is usually not a threatening behavior. 
• Black bears will sometimes “bluff charge” when cornered, threatened or attempting to steal food. Stand your ground, avoid direct eye contact, then slowly back away and do not run. 
• If the bear does not leave, move to a secure area. 
• Never feed or approach a bear! 
• Remain calm. 
• Make the bear aware of your presence by speaking in an assertive voice, singing, clapping your hands, or making other noises. 
• Make sure the bear has an escape route.