06/17/2026
Great information about our Black Bear residents as they make their way through the town.
Things are heating up — and that includes “beary” unwanted guests.
With young bears quickly growing, mating season underway, and yearlings finding their own territories, bears have been very active lately. This increased activity leads to more observations and, unfortunately, bears entering homes. So far this year, there have been 20 bear home entries in Connecticut.
With warm weather upon us, it is important to be to help prevent conflicts with bears that are comfortable around people and view our homes and yards as places to find food.
Remember the following:
✅ Prevent bears from finding human-sourced foods such as bird and hummingbird feeders, garbage, uncleaned grills, and pet food.
✅ Keep doors and windows secured, even if you are away briefly. Many bears gain entry to homes through open or unlocked door and windows—screens alone will not keep hungry bears away.
✅ Scare bears away if you see them—those quick pics and clips don’t benefit you or the bears.
✅ Keep pets on a leash when walking or hiking outdoors.
To learn more about living with black bears, or protecting chickens, bees, and livestock with electric fencing, visit https://portal.ct.gov/deep/wildlife/bears/the-basics-of-living-with-black-bears
It is up to all of us to keep bears, and our neighborhood, safe.
