Wildlife Advisory

William Paterson University Wildlife Advisory

 

Please be aware that due to the amount of “green space” on the campus and the proximity of the High Mountain Park Preserve a variety of wildlife can be found on and near the William Paterson University Campus. Deer, geese, turkeys, groundhogs and, on rare occasions, bears and coyotes are some of the animals you may encounter as you make your way around the campus.

 

Because of this, we ask that you keep the following general safety guidelines in mind. 

• Walk with others and/or make noise to alert the animal to your presence. 

• Do not approach, attempt to feed, pet or lure any of the animals. 

• Do not approach nests or new born/young animals as their parents are particularly protective and potentially aggressive.

• If you see an animal in your path, change your course or direction to avoid the animal altogether or create a greater distance between you and the animal as you pass.

• Report any unusual behavior to Campus Police by calling 973-720-2300.

 

If you see a bear:

• Remain calm. Do not run from it. 

• Make the bear aware of your presence by speaking in an assertive voice, singing, clapping your hands, or making other noises. 

• Avoid direct eye contact, back up slowly.

• Make sure the bear has an escape route. 

• If the bear does not leave, move to a secure area.

• Notify Campus Police by calling 973-720-2300. 

 

If you see a coyote: 

• Do not turn your back on a coyote or run away from a coyote.

• If coyotes are present, make sure they know they’re not welcome. Make loud noises, blast a canned air siren/horn, throw rocks, etc.

• Notify Campus Police by calling 973-720-2300. 

 

For further information on New Jersey wildlife and appropriate precautions, please visit the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection website at www.nj.gov/dep/fgw/wildlife.htm