Man Attacked By Bear In North Canaan, CT-DEEP Says

NORTH CANAAN, CT — A North Canaan man was attacked by a bear after officials say he got in between the animal and his dog early Monday morning.

The CT Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (CT-DEEP) responded to a North Canaan property on a report of a bear attack shortly before 6 a.m., according to CT-DEEP spokesperson James Fowler.

"According to initial information, the man sustained minor injuries, described as scratches to the chest, and declined medical treatment at the scene. The dog was reportedly unharmed," Fowler said in an email to Patch.

The bear's cubs were also present on the man's property, Fowler noted.

DEEP Environmental Conservation Police and staff from the agency's Wildlife Division are following up on the incident, which remains under investigation. The location of the bear was unknown as of late Monday morning.

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Fowler said that as the state's bear population continues to grow, it's important for residents to reduce potential conflicts by properly managing outdoor food sources such as bird seed and other feeders, garbage, pet food, backyard chickens, and grills.

"Bears that access human-associated food often become food-conditioned and lose their natural fear of people, which can lead to increased risks and property damage," Fowler said. "Residents with pets or walking dogs in areas with known bear activity should also maintain high awareness of their surroundings."

Carrying a bear whistle or bear spray is recommended, Fowler said. Pets should be kept on leashes at all times while on walks.

For more information about how to reduce the likelihood of bear conflicts and what to do if you encounter a bear, visit the CT-DEEP website.