A black bear was spotted in a Waterbury neighborhood near Post University this morning. It is not the first time, and with the increasing bear population, it is likely not the last.
Animal Control and Police vehicles circled the area, but did not find the animal, who was already tagged and estimated to weigh in at about 150 pounds.
Late June is the start of mating season, so it is possible that this bear was out looking for love. More likely is that the bear was searching for food, and it is up to the residents of the neighborhood to make that a difficult task so that our visitor will move on.
According to the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection, the following measures should be taken to make your yard less inviting to a hungry bear:
- 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.
Black bears are usually not aggressive toward humans, but never take chances if you encounter one. Keep your distance and make noise to scare it. If you find yourself within close range, don't run, back away while facing the bear and stay calm.
Keep your pets indoors and walk your dog(s) on a leash. Carry a flashlight to shine at the bear at night. This should work to scare it away.
If you do see a bear, call 911 for an immediate response.
For further information about black bears, refer to the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection's fact sheet.
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