Bear Cub Explores Mountainside, N.J.

MOUNTAINSIDE, N.J. (CBSNewYork) — Police radios crackled with sightings as a bear cub was seen marching through the wooded areas of Mountainside, N.J., Thursday, WCBS 880’s Jim Smith reported. Bear Cub Explores Mountainside, N.J. Jim Smith reports play pause The bear, estimated at about 100 pounds, has been roaming neighborhoods around the Watchung Reservation, 1010 WINS’ Al Jones reported. Mother and baby apparently split up as the cub explored the area– including near the community pool. Recreation Director Frank Masella said they shut it down briefly as a precaution. “Everybody out of the water, including my staff and any member,” Masella said. The bear eventually wandered north near the forest of the Watchung Reservation and popped out in a backyard long enough for watchers to get a glimpse– including 10-year-old Maggie. “I really like it, it’s really cute and I’ve never seen a bear before,” Maggie said. Kids at an outdoor camp were also sent inside, CBS 2’s Andrea Grymes reported. “It didn’t alarm me, I’m just glad they told me because I have a little dog and I didn’t want the dog outside,” Kim Hain said, whose home was “visited” by the bear. Bear Cub 'Visits' Mountainside, N.J. Al Jones reports play pause Since the bear was deemed not a danger, it was allowed to mosey around. The bear is still on the loose, Jones reported. Wildlife experts advise on keeping the trash inside, refraining from filling the bird feeder and keeping an eye on your dog. State officials say if you do encounter a bear, do not feed it or go near it; you can yell or bang pots and pans to scare it away and call your local authorities. Residents of Jefferson Township also caught a glimpse of a bear, which appeared to be walking upright, early Monday morning. You Might Also Be Interested In: CBS 2 Exclusive: Driver In Times Square Bus Crash Says He Wasn’t High On