Last week, a resident sent First Selectwoman Lynne Vanderslice a photo of a black bear spotted on their street. According to Vanderslice, this is the second black bear sighting in area over the course of the past several weeks. According to data published by the CT Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), there have been 12 reported black bear sightings in Wilton this calendar year.
- Report bear sightings to the Wildlife Division, at 860-424-3011.
Connecticut's Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) says that in wilderness settings, bears usually avoid people but bird feeders, garbage, outdoor pet food, compost piles, fruit trees, and berry-producing shrubs serve as attractants for bears.
To avoid attracting bears, the CT DEEP recommends:
- Remove bird feeders from late March through November. If a bear visits a bird feeder in winter, remove the feeder.
- Wait until the morning of collection before bringing out trash. Add a few capfuls of ammonia to trash bags and garbage cans to mask food odors. Keep trash bags in a container with a tight lid and store in a garage or shed.
- Do not leave pet food outside overnight. Store livestock food in airtight containers.
- Do not put meats or sweet-smelling fruit rinds in compost piles. Lime can be sprinkled on the compost pile to reduce the smell and discourage bears.
- Thoroughly clean grills after use or store in a garage or shed.
- Never intentionally feed bears. Bears that associate food with people may become aggressive and dangerous. This may lead to personal injury, property damage, and the need to destroy problem animals.
- Encourage your neighbors to take similar precautions.
The DEEP warns: if you see a bear:
- Observe it from a distance.
- Advertise your presence by shouting and waving your arms or walk slowly away.
- Never attempt to feed or attract bears.
- Report bear sightings to the Wildlife Division, at 860-424-3011.