Piscataway wants to name roaming bear

PISCATAWAY – The township is looking to name one of the newer members of the community.

In conjunction with its 350th anniversary, the township is asking residents to submit names for a bear that has been spotted often in the community.

“I think since he seems to like living in our community, we should have a naming contest — it doesn’t seem right to continue to call him just Bear," Mayor Brian C. Wahler said. "Maybe he knows it’s our 350th anniversary and wants in on the celebration.”

While bears have been sighted in and around the township the last several months and are reportedly seen by residents almost on a daily basis, this bear is seen most often, according to a statement from the township.

The bear has been described by residents knowledgeable about bears as being about 1 year old and weighing about 100 pounds, the statement said.

READ: Bear sightings becoming common in Central Jersey

READ: Bear is roaming around Watchung

Anyone who would like to submit a name for the bear may send it to public.info@piscatawaynj.org.

The 350th anniversary committee will choose the name, and the winner will be featured in the fall issue of Piscataway News. The deadline for entries is July 6.

In wake of the recent bear sightings, residents are urged to keep all garbage cans well secured and out of reach to wildlife.

To report a bear sighting call the township Police Department at 732-562-1100, and the Division of Fish and Wildlife, Wildlife Control at 908-735-8793.

Staff Writer Susan Loyer: 732-565-7243; sloyer@gannettnj.com