Yesterday evening I was on the phone with Rick when the neighbor’s dogs started barking. Then our dogs started barking their “mom, something is in the yard” bark and they were all gathered in the office, noses pointing to the front yard. Sure enough, there was a large black bear hanging out in the front yard next to a tree. It was a bigger bear than the other visitor we had. So, someone new. This could be the bear who visited in the dark the other night.

As I watched, look what popped out from behind the tree!

Awww ... such a tiny baby! I had about given up the idea that we were going to have any new bear babies this year as they usually make their appearance before now. It was rather dim outside, the day never really brightening back up since our morning thunderstorms, so it was not the best light for taking photos and the bears are always on the move.

There is nothing cuter than a new bear cub! Look how adorable!

Bears make such great mothers. They take great care with their offspring. Here is a sweet nose touch.

As they started across the road, another cub came scrambling down the tree and joined them. Twins! Don’t leave me behind!

Just as they crossed the road there was quick blur as a third cub dropped out of the tree and raced to catch up with the rest of the family. Triplets! I was thrilled. They entered the neighbor’s woods and visited them for a while. Pretty soon I looked out and saw momma just laying smack in the middle of the road. She looks pretty at home, don’t you think?

I am trying to identify this bear, and because of the placement of the ear tags and the patch of brown on her chest, I am making the assumption it’s Patches from last year.

She heard noises coming from the other neighbor’s yard and sat up to try and decide if it was a threat. She already knew I had my head and camera poking out of the upstairs window and had decided I was fine where I was.

Okay, kids. Quit your playing in the woods and let’s go! she says as she heads straight for my yard again.

And then they were gone, crossing over my front yard, then my driveway, and down into the woods headed for the brook. I hope she brings them back soon for another visit! Now you can see why I worry about leaving our basement door open all night!

These are the BEST ever! Looks like the bear family posed just for you.

Yes the cubs are adorable. The mom looks big. I’m relieved that you stay indoors, away from her. Wow!!

Wow!  Just wow!  I probably would have peed my pants.  How on earth does the most densely populated state still support these creatures?

Too wonderful! Looking forward to many more photos.

Bears!  Glad to see they’re back.

Your photos and story are quite a treat to start my day.  Thank you.

That is so amazing - I just can’t believe how lucky you are to see these bears.  I am so glad you were able to take such good photos and thank you for sharing them.

Thanks, Reya. Yes, the mom was a big bear. Never fear, I was inside the house with myself and the camera hanging out the upstairs window!

Allison, NJ has a huge black bear population. Most of NJ is nothing like the intro to the Sopranos.

Mary, hopefully we’ll have many more!

Christina, me too!

Jack, welcome and thanks so much for commenting!

Joyce, lucky for certain. The bears are very special!

I am a friend of Jan (“Just A Mere” blog) and came here to see your bears after reading her blog comments.  Enjoyed seeing the bears! Thanks, Tish

Lynne- Just saw this on the news- MSNBC has a video- thought immediately of you and your bear. I have no idea if this is even near you- but figured you would be interested. I hope the link works- if not- it’s on MSNBC video site.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21134540/vp=31375030�
Let me know if it is your Patches!!

I was wondering if you were going to get a family of bears again this year.  These pictures are really stunning!  I have not seen bears in our neck of the woods here in Lyme, however, I am not sure I would want to bump into these guys.  I can see my Berner Boys running after them.  Lucky your berners have not been out when she visits.  thanks for sharing your pictures Lynne.

What a cool experience!  Thanks for sharing your wildlife family with us!  You are right, there is nothing cuter than a bear cub - except three bear cubs!!