Reports Of Bear Sightings Increase In Naugatuck: Police

NAUGATUCK, CT — Naugatuck police have recently seen an increase in callers reporting bear sightings in town.

In a Facebook post Thursday, police asked residents not to report the movements or any non-aggressive actions of bears spotted in town and noted there are no actions the department can take if a bear is simply minding its business.

"Unless the bear is breaking and entering, committing an act of vandalism or has...the family pet in its mouth, please forward any non-emergent bear reports to the [Department of Energy and Environmental Protection]," police said on Facebook.

Police advise any resident who spots a bear in their neighborhood to keep their distance and bring pets inside.

In the summer, bears are typically on the move in the early morning and late evening hours to avoid the peak sun and heat of midday, police said.

"While they look cute and cuddly, do not engage with a bear in your backyard," police said.

More information can be found here.