Connecticut residents are on the front line of this sudden increase in black bear sightings, especially near cities in the state’s crowded south. The growing conflict between humans and bears is the leading cause of bear mortality in the state and has worried state officials and wildlife advocates alike. The Connecticut Department of ENERGY and ENVIRONMENTAL protection (DEEP) is calling it a significant jump. They attribute this increase to the access, or lack thereof, to food sources near residences and workplaces.
On April 11, DEEP staff were able to rapidly respond to a report of a young bear treed by dogs. The sighting happened right next to Westfarms Mall, a major commercial hub. Will Healey, a spokesperson for Connecticut’s Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, acknowledged the incident. He added that wildlife officials tried multiple techniques to coax the bear down from the tree.
“With the winter denning season now over, bears become more active in the spring.” – Will Healey
Increased Bear Activity
DEEP provides that black bears are increasingly widespread throughout Connecticut. They’ve been hearing from the public, mainly through a massive uptick in PDX sightings, particularly in residential areas. Now that bears are out of their winter dens, the chances of them coming into contact with humans increase dramatically. DEEP encourages the public to always be “bear wise.” They encourage the community to remain aware and alert as they go about their neighborhoods this busy season.
Healey announced that DEEP’s Environmental Conservation Police moved quickly. They ultimately managed to herd the bear away from the mall vicinity, keeping both the bear and human lives safe. To encourage the bear to come down, authorities shot at the bear with a paintball gun. Finally, they banged on the tree with a stick, which surprised the bear, causing it to spring and run into the adjacent forest.
Preventing Bear Conflicts
To prevent possible human-bear conflicts, DEEP recommends residents remove or secure food, garbage and other items that might draw bears. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization, the establishment of readily available food supplies is one of the key drivers of these clashes. State officials are warning residents and asking them to help. They suggest metal or bear-proof garbage containers and cleaning up any traces of food from outside.
The National Park Service, in partnership with DEEP, continues to spread the word that being “BearWise” is important. Be familiar with what to do if you come across a bear. Equally important, though, is the need to prioritize preventing situations where tensions can escalate into strife.
Growing Awareness Among Residents
At the same time, reports of bear sightings are increasing. The Department of Energy and Environmental Protection urges everyone in the community to remain vigilant and be aware of wildlife interactions. Residents need to familiarize themselves with the new safety protocols and health precautions. This information will go a long way to reduce unwanted bear encounters during their most active spring months.
The state agency’s ongoing efforts to educate residents about wildlife behavior aim to foster a safer coexistence with these animals. By making sure their food sources are safe and staying aware, residents can do their part in protecting themselves and bears from potentially dangerous encounters.
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