Black Bear Rescued After Getting Stuck In Tree Near New Jersey Turnpike

April 15, 2011 2:00 PM

EAST WINDSOR, NJ (CBS) – Crews were able to safely rescue a black bear who got stuck after climbing a large tree near the New Jersey Turnpike Friday morning.

The incident played out near Exit 8 of the Turnpike in East Windsor, Mercer County.

Police officials said the black bear was first spotted on the shoulder of the toll road shortly after 8 a.m.

The bear eventually climbed up the tree and stayed there until police and rescue crews arrived on scene. At one point, the bear climbed to a point near the top of the tree.

Crew members from the Department of Fish and Wildlife were able to tranquilize the bear and it safely stayed in one spot. (PHOTOS: Dramatic Rescue)

Four rescue members then used a large cherry picker and were able to load the bear into the bucket and lowered it to the ground.

It is expected that the bear will be released back into the wild after it is examined.

WEB EXTRA: Bear Rescued From Tree

Reported By Steve Beck, CBSPhilly.com