By MES Dispatch staff
The Briefing
• New Jersey State Police troopers rescued a bear cub found in a roadside ditch along a highway in Gloucester County.
• The cub was unable to climb out and appeared distressed when first located.
• Troopers safely retrieved the animal and transferred it to wildlife officials for care.
• Authorities said the cub was later released back into its natural habitat.
GLOUCESTER COUNTY, NJ — New Jersey State Police troopers rescued a bear cub that was stranded in a ditch along a highway in Gloucester County, authorities said.
New Jersey State Police via AP
Troopers spotted the cub after receiving reports of an animal in distress near a roadway and found the young bear unable to climb out of the roadside depression, according to a state police statement.
Using safe handling techniques, troopers retrieved the cub and secured it without injury before transferring the animal to local wildlife officials for veterinary evaluation and care.
Department officials later reported the cub was healthy and subsequently released back into suitable habitat by wildlife personnel, who continue to monitor the area for other animals.
No injuries to people or additional wildlife were reported in connection with the incident.