Multiple Black Bear Sightings Cause One Monmouth County, NJ Town to Close Park

Over the past few weeks, Monmouth County has had a few unusual visitors.

I'm not talking people, I'm talking black bears.

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Shannon Holly from the Jersey Shore Morning Show told the story of a friend who got an early start at 5:30 one morning, looked out the window, and saw a black bear climbing a tree.

This happened on Coachman Drive in Freehold Township on May 19.

The bear was looking for food and was going after the bird feeder.

The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection says that if you come in contact with a black bear to stand your ground and avoid direct eye contact.

Then, slowly back away. Absolutely do not run. If the bear does not leave, move to a secure area.

Freehold is inland enough that seeing a black bear is rather rare but not unheard of.

Atlantic Highlands. That's a completely different story.

The Atlantic Highlands Police Department issued a statement on its Facebook page Friday afternoon saying that there had been multiple black bear sightings in the area of Upper East Highland Avenue and Lenape Woods.

Lenape Woods and Mount Mitchill Park are closed until further notice.

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.

New Jersey Fish and Wildlife believe that the bear will move on from Atlantic Highlands soon. But, if you see the bear, officials are asking that you please call (877) 927-6337.

According to the Atlantic Highlands Police Department Facebook page, Fish and Wildlife will not respond to remove the bear from our location unless it gets into a fixed position such as a tree or an enclosure.