Officials: Bipedal bear spotted, appears to be healthy

WEST MILFORD, N.J. – New Jersey wildlife officials say there’s been a sighting of a bear that walks upright on its two hind legs and has become a social media darling.

Fans of the bipedal bear nicknamed Pedals had grown concerned when the animal had not been seen for several weeks.

Pedals apparently has an injured leg or paw that doesn’t allow it to walk comfortably on all fours, experts say.

But officials told NJ.com that a resident saw Pedals in West Milford on Dec. 21 and said the bear appeared to be in good health.

The bear first gained fame after it was spotted last year ambling around neighborhoods and was caught on videos that were posted on social media and played on national television. Since then, animal activists voiced concern that the bear’s health has declined and they fear it might not survive a harsh winter. They also doubt the bear can run, climb or defend itself, or even eat properly.

Supporters hope Pedals can be moved to a sanctuary in New York state, but New Jersey officials have said they won’t allow the bear to be transported out of state. They have said they want to examine the bear before making any decisions about it, and they don’t plan to try to capture the animal.