New Jersey residents start fundraiser to help Pedals the walking bear's injured paw

OAK RIDGE, NJ (WABC) -- Residents in a New Jersey neighborhood have been reporting sightings of a bear who looks more human than animal.

The black bear walks on his hind legs, completely upright, like a human, prompting residents in Oak Ridge to wonder at first if he could be a person in bear costume.

The six-foot bear, nicknamed Pedals, has been seen strolling through yards and rummaging through garbage cans.

As funny as he looks, Pedals condition is no laughing matter.

He is missing a front paw and needs urgent medical attention, so neighbors are uniting to help him.

They've set up a Facebook page and a GoFundMe campaign that has already raised well over the $15,000 goal.

The hope is to get Pedals to the Orphaned Wildlife Centre, which says they'll accept the wounded animal.

However, New Jersey Fish and Wildlife disapproves of the move, saying the bear should stay right where it is.

They fear that moving Pedals could cause him more harm.