Police and wildlife officials are searching for at least one bear spotted roaming in several towns in two different states.
The black bear was spotted along the Pennsauken Creek in Maple Shade, NJ around midnight on Wednesday. It was also seen near Moorestown, NJ near Cottage and Browning avenues along the creek. Witnesses say the bear ran off into the woods during both sightings.
The bear was also spotted on Monday around 12:30 p.m. in a backyard in Mount Laurel, N.J. as well as on Sunday, at 1:15 p.m., on the 200 block of Meadow Drive.
Police confirmed Sunday’s sighting and described the animal as “large” and about 5 to 6 feet. Police notified wildlife and fish and game officials. They also warned residents in the area to keep trash and place bird feeders inside and for children to stay indoors. Officials have not yet confirmed if it was the same bear spotted Monday and Sunday. NBC10 viewer Bryan Tomlin took a photo of the bear on Sunday, claiming it was in his neighbor’s backyard.
The Burlington County Times also reports that a bear was spotted in the Spring Meadows section of Westampton, N.J. on Friday, Burlington Township on Wednesday and Florence last Monday and Tuesday.
Several bear sightings were also reported two weeks ago across the Delaware River in Lower Bucks County, Pa. There were reports of a sightings in Hulmeville, Croydon, Middletown and Bensalem.
While the animal may be on the run, it "apparently" found the time to create a Twitter page. The twitter account “Black Bear Spotted” already has over 360 followers.
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“I hate Mondays,” the account tweeted. “Wait, I’m a bear.”
While the bear has not appeared to be aggressive, local residents aren't taking any chances.
"I think it's a smart move to keep your animals and children indoors," said Tara Pal of Maple Shade. "Just make sure the children don't go anywhere near the bear."