How to Deter Bears in Farmington

Farmington Police have recieved multiple reports of black bear sightings in town recently.

Former farmlands have reverted into wooded areas, which allow corridors for bears to travel from northwestern Connecticut into Farmington, said Animal Control Officer Charlene Rogers.

It is important for people to adapt to the presence of bears and take precautions to avoid problems and damage, she said.

If people do not take precautions, problem behavior by bears will continue to increase,
leading to bears being removed and destroyed,“ she said. “Simply put, a fed bear is a dead bear.”

Bears are attracted to bird feeders, outdoor pet food, compost and garbage cans. For a bear it’s an easy meal and it attracts them to residential areas.

Removing food from outside will help deter bears.

People who spot a bear on their property can either wait for it to leave or make loud noises from a safe distance in order to scare it off. Keep pets and children indoors until the bear is out of sight.

One way to make the loud noise is to use a boat air horn can or bang two pots together, she said.

Making noise while walking will usually make bears and other wildlife leave in an opposite direction. A dog collar with bells is one effective way to do this.

Some important numbers below:

Charlene Rogers Animal Control Officer 860-675-2440

Sessions Woods DEEP Wildlife Management 860-675-8130

DEEP Hotline 860-424-3333