Black Bear Sightings Increase in Rhode Island, New Jersey, Pennsylvania

An increase in black bear sightings has been reported across several communities in the northeastern U.S., including Smithfield, Rhode Island, Middletown Township, Pennsylvania, and Ridgewood, New Jersey. Authorities in Rhode Island and New Jersey emphasize securing garbage, removing outdoor feeders, and avoiding feeding bears to prevent encounters, noting that bears are generally transient and avoid humans. In Middletown Township, schools took precautions by keeping students indoors following a bear sighting near local parks and schools, with the Pennsylvania Game Commission advising on safe behavior if encountering bears. Despite the rise in sightings, officials highlight that black bear attacks on humans remain extremely rare, and the animals are typically not a cause for concern. Residents are encouraged to report sightings to local police departments and wildlife agencies to help monitor bear activity. Community members have expressed curiosity and caution, with social media and neighborhood groups keeping each other informed about bear movements.