After inspecting the interior of the car, the animal wandered toward a nearby home and made itself comfortable on the deck, seemingly unbothered by its surroundings. While the bear did not cause significant damage, the incident left many locals both amused and concerned about how accustomed some wildlife have become to human environments.
Encounters between bears and people have been increasing in various parts of New Jersey, particularly in more wooded communities like West Milford. Wildlife experts say that black bears are highly intelligent and curious animals, often capable of manipulating objects like door handles or trash bin latches in search of food. This behavior is sometimes encouraged unintentionally when residents leave food, pet dishes, or unsecured garbage outdoors, which can attract bears from surrounding forested areas.
Officials are urging residents to take precautions to avoid attracting bears to their properties. They recommend keeping garbage cans secured with bear-resistant lids, removing bird feeders during active bear seasons, cleaning grills after use, and ensuring that all food is stored indoors. Pet food should never be left outside, and compost piles should be managed in a way that does not create strong odors.
Authorities also stress the importance of maintaining a safe distance from any bear encounter. While black bears are generally not aggressive toward humans, they can become defensive if they feel threatened or cornered. Approaching, feeding, or attempting to interact with bears is strongly discouraged, as it can lead to dangerous situations for both people and wildlife.
Wildlife officials note that bears who become too accustomed to human presence may lose their natural fear, which can increase the likelihood of conflict. In many cases, bears that repeatedly enter neighborhoods in search of food must be relocated or, in extreme cases, euthanized to ensure public safety. This makes prevention and education vital in communities where bears are frequently sighted.
The recent West Milford incident serves as a reminder of how adaptable and resourceful bears can be, and why it is important for residents to remain vigilant about securing their property. While the sight of a bear casually opening a car door might be amusing to witness, it underscores the need for coexistence strategies that protect both humans and wildlife.
