Bear Cub Rescued from Busy NJ Highway

State police safely transported the distressed animal to environmental officials for proper care.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 3:28pm

An abstract, impressionistic photograph depicting the blurred outline of a small bear cub in a lush, green roadside setting, with soft, warm pools of light and color creating a dreamlike, atmospheric quality.The rescue of a distressed bear cub on a busy New Jersey highway highlights the need for swift action to protect vulnerable wildlife.Union Today

A bear cub was found alone in a roadside ditch on Route 78 in Union Township, New Jersey, prompting a swift response from state police. Troopers from the Perryville Station safely rescued and transported the cub to ensure its well-being, before handing it over to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection for further evaluation and care.

Why it matters

Incidents involving wildlife on busy highways can pose a serious risk to both the animal and public safety. The quick action by state police to rescue the distressed cub and transfer it to the proper authorities highlights the importance of having protocols in place to respond to these types of situations and ensure the welfare of vulnerable wildlife.

The details

At around 1:37 pm on April 1st, state troopers from the Perryville Station responded to a call about a bear cub spotted abandoned and alone in a roadside ditch along Route 78 in Union Township. The troopers safely secured the cub and transported it back to the police barracks before releasing it into the care of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection.

  • On April 1st, 2026 at around 1:37 pm, state police received the call about the bear cub on Route 78.
  • The troopers safely rescued and transported the cub shortly after receiving the call.

The players

New Jersey State Police

The state law enforcement agency that responded to the call and rescued the bear cub from the roadside ditch.

New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection

The state agency that took custody of the bear cub after it was rescued by state police, in order to provide proper care and evaluation for the animal.

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The takeaway

This incident highlights the importance of having protocols in place to respond to wildlife emergencies on busy roads, in order to ensure the safety of both the animals and the public. The quick action by state police to rescue the distressed bear cub and transfer it to the proper authorities demonstrates the value of having trained personnel ready to handle these types of situations.