Black Bear

" Bears are not companions of men, but children of God, and His charity is broad enough for both... We seek to establish a narrow line between ourselves and the feathery zeros we dare to call angels, but ask a partition barrier of infinite width to show the rest of creation its proper place. Yet bears are made of the same dust as we, and breathe the same winds and drink of the same waters. A bear's days are warmed by the same sun, his dwellings are overdomed by the same blue sky, and his life turns and ebbs with heart-pulsings like ours and was poured from the same fountain....."~ John Muir

Since the 80's the black bear in New Jersey has increased both its range and numbers.  Primarily located in northwestern New Jersey, there have been confirmed sightings in all twenty-one counties.  Remain alert, an encounter is possible.  There are rules, when backpacking, which will help  reduce your risk traveling in bear country.

1. Stay alert.  If there is a park service in the area, check with them for areas to avoid.  Do not be foolish enough to think it will never happen to you.
2. Never feed a bear. It is not only unsafe to you, but unsafe for the bear.  It is important for the bear's survival to remain wary of humans.
3. Do not bring food or personal items which are smelly.  Bears have an acute sense of smell.  Your deodorant or soap may attract him.
4. Never leave food or garbage unattended.  Use bear proof containers, hang your food at night. Don't leave your food sitting out while you go to get water, thinking you will return in just a few moments.  This is just the opportunity the bear needs.
5. Be noisy.  Let the bear know you are sharing his habitat.
6. Do not hike night.  Bears are more active at night, this is their prime dinner time. Often they will use the same trails. 

If despite your best efforts, you find yourself in the presence of a bear the following will help reduce your risk of harm.  If you determine the bear does not sense your presence, slowly back away, keeping downwind, detour around the bear.  If that is not possible:

1. Stay calm. Bears have an acute sense of smell, they may misinterpret fear for aggression.
2. Make non threatening noises. Hand clapping, singing, speaking in calm, but assertive voice may help.  Shouting may be misunderstood as a threat.  Now is the time to use your airhorn.
3. Back away slowly. Do not try to outrun a bear, you cannot.  If the bear is a baby, the mother will be close.  Do not get between mother and baby. If you are thinking about climbing a tree make sure you can climb up at least fifteen feet.
4. Make sure the bear has an path to escape you. Chances are the bear wants out of this situation as badly as you do.
5. Avoid direct eye contact. The bear will find it threatening.
6. Make yourself appear larger.  If alone move your arms out from your side.  If with someone else, stand close together and put arms in the air.

The bear's behavior at this point may vary.  Bears are very unpredictable.  The bear may simply leave. He may make popping sounds with his jaw or swat at the ground.  The message he is trying to convey is  "you are still too close".  Continue to back away.  He may stand on hind legs, this is not necessarily a threatening move.  He may just be trying to get a better view or pick up your scent.

If the bear charges, the following may help you avoid serious harm.

1. Do not run.  Bears sometimes "bluff charges", especially if they feel threatened.  Stand your ground, do not make eye contact.  The bear may suddenly stop or veer away.  If that happens, continue to back away

If the bear makes contact:

Fight aggressively. If you have pepper spray use it.  Go for the eyes and nose, if at all possible.

Black bear attacks are extremely rare.  Being informed is your best defense. 

The video below also includes grizzly bear defense.