Two Black Bears Spotted Wandering Through Westfield (PHOTOS)

WESTFIELD, NJ — Two black bears were spotted in a residential area of Westfield early Monday morning, and police have warned residents to exercise caution.

The police issued an alert around 9 a.m.: "Two black bears were seen in the area of Willow Grove Road and Plymouth Road. Use extreme caution and do not approach them. Please keep domestic animals indoors. Contact the Westfield Police Department if spotted. "

A Scotch Plains resident, Sara Todaro, said her husband saw one bear near Lamberts Mill Road. Her husband took the above photos.

If you take photos of bears that you care to share, email them (if you dare!) to caren.lissner@Patch.com.

The last bear sighting in Westfield, in early June, caused a stir.

The state Department of Environmental Protection, on their "Be Bear Aware" website, says that black bears are the largest mammal in the Garden State, and have been spotted in all 21 counties.

They rarely attack, but can be dangerous. If you see a black bear, don't approach it.

The site suggests that it's best to avoid leaving food out, if you don't want bears. If you see one, make noise to scare it away. If attacked, don't "play dead"; instead, fight back. To read more about what to do and who to call if you see a bear, click here.

Got news? Email caren.lissner@patch.com. To be the first to get news alerts with breaking stories in Westfield, or to get a free local newsletter each morning, sign up for Patch breaking news alerts or daily newsletters.