Bears have been spotted recently in these North Jersey towns

Police departments and municipalities around North Jersey are informing residents of local black bear sightings.

Black bear damage or nuisance behavior can be reported to your local police department or to Fish and Wildlife at 877-927-6337.

Police departments and municipalities around North Jersey have taken to social media in recent weeks to inform residents of black bear sightings.

Even though black bears can be active all year long, New Jersey Fish and Wildlife says they are the most active in the spring, when they emerge from their dens to forage for food; during the summer breeding season; and in the fall, while they prepare for the winter den period.

New Jersey's black bears are most commonly found in the northwest region of the state, particularly in Sussex, Passaic, Warren and