It's Been a Bear-Palooza So Far This Spring in Connecticut

It's been a veritable bear-palooza since the black furry animals began emerging from their dens for the spring in Connecticut.

On the fun side, We've had a bear banging on a back-porch slider, seemingly wanting a brownie. Check out the details of the adventure here.

On a serious side, a bear has to be put down on an area trail after scratching a woman who was walking her dog. Check out the story here.

Simsbury resident Rob Perissi said bears have been visiting his back yard regularly.

"We see bears all the time," he said. "One time they were at our door, nose-to-nose with our dog — on our deck."

And now ... the cutest bear, according to NBC Connecticut Meteorologist Ryan Hanrahan.

"Nicole in Plainville wins the award for cutest bear video of the year ... A mama and her cubs," he said. Check it out, courtesy of Hanrahan:

The state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection regularly updates bear sighting statistics. Avon leads the way year-to-date with more than 500.

Check out the full chart here.

Deep officials say 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.

Photo Courtesy of Rob Perissi; Video Courtesy of Ryan Hanrahan