Black Bear Spotted in Bethel Yard: Animal Control

BETHEL, CT -- Police animal control has reported that a black bear was spotting roaming around downtown Thursday. The beast was seen in the area of Greenwood Avenue to Parloa Park heading south. Last reported sighting was on Nashville Road.

"Hopefully he continues south to more wooded areas," animal control said.

The bear poses no public safety threat and is easily scared by people. They are, however, opportunistic feeders and will feed on bird feeders, unsecured garbage, animal feed, etc. Animal control cautioned residents to make sure their garbage is secure and to bring in any bird feeders.

Bethel has had only eight bear sightings in the past year, according to the state's Department of Energy and Environmental Protection.