Frank Becerra Jr./The Journal News / USA TODAY
(South Orange, New Jersey) – Locals were put on high alert Monday morning after a bear took a stroll through South Orange, New Jersey. The South Orange Maplewood School District, out of an abundance of caution, made the decision to cancel outdoor lunch and recess with a bear on the loose.
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection says bear sightings have been up 69.5% compared to last year, while interactions with them are down just over 1%. The NPS (National Park Service) says if you see a bear approaching you, try scaring it away by yelling aggressively and as loudly as possible, don’t run away. The bear still hasn’t been found.
