Black Bears Spotted In Meriden

MERIDEN, CT — City officials are advising residents that a black bear has been spotted in the South Meriden area near the airport.

As of 1 p.m., officials said a black bear is on the Meriden Markham Airport property.

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State and local authorities have been notified, according to a post on the City of Meriden’s Facebook page.

In an update at 3 p.m., officials said the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection and the Meriden Animal Control left the airport after not being able to find the black bear.

A black bear was spotted earlier in the day at the corner of Somer Drive and Godek Hill Road around 10 a.m., according to officials.

Black bears have become increasingly common in Connecticut in recent years, with the population expanding into more suburban communities. State officials estimate there are between about 1,000 and 1,200 bears statewide.

Reports of bear encounters — including animals getting into trash, bird feeders, and occasionally homes — have also increased alongside the growing population.

Officials say most conflicts can be avoided by removing food sources and keeping a safe distance.

Residents are encouraged to:

• Secure trash cans with tight-fitting lids
• Remove bird feeders during warmer months
• Keep pet food indoors
• Clean grills and outdoor eating areas
• Never intentionally feed bears

If you encounter a bear, experts recommend staying calm, making noise, and slowly backing away.