Bear walking on two-legs in New Jersey

NEW JERSEY (FOX5NY) - A black bear that walks upright on its two hind legs and has become a social media darling has emerged months after its last sighting.  The bipedal bear nicknamed Pedals was spotted in Oak Ridge, N.J. on June 20.

Video taken by resident Joey Esposito shows that the bear appears to be in relatively good health and is moving briskly despite concerns it had an injury to a front paw or leg.

A Facebook page was created last year to update the public about the bear.

At the time, people seemed concerned for its health.

"He desperately needs help. He is missing a paw and the other is injured," according to the petition page. "He is being chased around Oak Ridge NJ by people wanting to get a glimpse of him."

State Environmental Protection Department Lawrence Hajna says the bear has an "indomitable spirit" and officials expect it to make it through next winter.

The bear first gained fame after it was spotted ambling around neighborhoods. It was caught on videos that were posted on social media and played on nation.

With the Associated Press