Rep. Reddington-Hughes Hosts Successful 'Bear Aware Forum' with DEEP
Key Takeaways
- Connecticut recorded 50 bear home entries this year
- DEEP reported more than 3,500 bear conflicts this year
- Residents should remove bird feeders and secure garbage
- Reddington-Hughes called for a balanced bear management plan
Despite having some of the lowest bear population, Connecticut has some of the highest percentage of home entries. There have been more entries this year (50) than all of last year, with DEEP estimating an increase in annual conflicts with roughly more than 3,500 reported conflicts this year. Over the last six years, DEEP has investigated and verified 265 occurrences of bears entering homes.
During last night’s ‘Bear Aware Forum,’ DEEP discussed how bears are opportunistic hunters and spend the majority of their time trying to find food. So, bird feeders and garbage provide them with much needed calories they’d spend days foraging for.
To avoid continued conflicts, DEEP recommends residents remove bird feeders, purchase bear proof garbage cans, and/or install electric fences. If you come in contact with a bear, it is suggested you safely yell, use an air horn, bear spray, or a paint ball gun to keep you/your family/your livestock safe.
"Thank you to everyone who attended the forum and for remaining actively engaged in finding a solution," Rep. Reddington-Hughes said. "For several sessions I have tried for a bear management plan which benefits both bears and humans, because the way this is currently being handled does neither."
If you weren't able to attend last night, but would like to look over DEEP's presentation, click here.