Search Underway For Deer With Container Stuck On Head In Naugatuck

NAUGATUCK, CT — While it is not unique to encounter deer in Naugatuck, local and state authorities are currently searching for a deer with a unique, and sad, problem: a plastic container stuck on its head.

The Republican-American reports a deer with its head stuck in a plastic jug was first spotted by a resident on Jan. 1 and later seen near Sierra Ridge Road on Jan. 11.

The sightings have prompted the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection to search for the deer in an effort to help the animal.

DEEP Spokesperson Paul Copleman said Tuesday the deer is still active and avoiding humans.

"Due to the container on its head, baiting it to an area will not work," Copleman said in an email to Patch, "so DEEP environmental conservation officers and our wildlife division will have to wait until it slows down a bit to be able to capture it and assist in getting the container removed."

Naugatuck police also confirmed to Patch they are assisting DEEP in their search for the animal.

"DEEP has been working closely with local authorities from the start and welcomes calls from the public if they are aware of the deer's location," Copleman said. "We would like to keep the lines as clear as possible, so unless you have information about a current position, please do not call in."

Copleman also discouraged residents from coming to the area to look for the deer or assist officers, as it could make their efforts more difficult and endanger the animal.

"We would also remind people that this is a wild animal," Copleman said, "and we do not recommend that the public try to engage in any attempt to physically help the deer."

Anyone with information about the deer or its location is asked to call 860-424-3333 and someone from DEEP will respond.