Bear Expert Talk Set for Nov. 14 in Westport

“BEAR AWARE” Warning Signs Go Up at Aspetuck Land Trust and Nature Preserve

Because of evidence of a growing number of black bears observed in its Trout Brook Valley Conservation Area spanning Weston and Easton,  Aspetuck Land Trust (ALT) today announced it was posting new “bear aware” notices in select locations in the 1,008-acre preserve.

“Black bears typically fear humans and flee when they are known to be near but there can always be exceptions. With wild animals, we need to err on the side of caution even though we have had no incidents to date. The way people behave can determine much about how bears behave,” said David Brant, Executive Director of ALT.

Connecticut’s increasing population of black bears, bobcats and other large mammals is the focus of a special talk by University of Connecticut wildlife expert Tracy Rittenhouse, Ph.D., sponsored by ALT on Wednesday, Nov. 14, 7:30 p.m. at the Unitarian Church, 10 Lyons Plains Road, Westport. Admission is free to members of Aspetuck Land Trust with a $5 suggested donation for non-members. A dessert reception will follow the talk. Seating is limited. Those planning to attend should RSVP to Alice Cooney at RSVP@AspetuckLandTrust.org or 203-260-4737.

Black bears, benefitting from the re-growth of forest areas and a state ban on bear hunting, are appearing across Connecticut and elsewhere. They are seen far outside conserved areas.  Any neighborhood where houses have two or three acre lots are potential black bear habitats, according to Professor Rittenhouse.

The new ALT warning signs are informed by guidance from the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection.  The signs urge hikers to make noise while hiking, hike in groups and to make sure dogs are leashed. If a bear is observed, make enough noise so the bear is aware of your presence. Never approach a bear. If the bear does not leave, back away slowly. Never run or climb a tree. If a bear does approach, hikers are urged to make more noise, wave arms and throw objects at the bear.

Hikers and people living in the vicinity of Trout Brook Valley have reported seeing from three to five bears. Bears have also been photographed in hidden wildlife cameras at Trout Brook Valley. 

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Submitted by Westport, CT

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