Bear Spotted In Tree, On Residential Road In New Canaan

NEW CANAAN, CT — A bear was spotted in a tree and on a residential road in New Canaan this week, according to the town's animal control officer.

In an email, Allyson Halm confirmed the bear was seen Tuesday on Ludlowe Road.

Additionally, a bear in a tree on Canoe Hill Road attracted the attention of two dogs Wednesday night. The bear later climbed down from the tree and left the area after the dogs were secured, Halm said.

Halm noted the bear in the tree was likely the same one spotted on Ludlowe Road the day prior.

This week's bear sighting marked the eighth reported in New Canaan thus far in 2023, the majority of which have occurred in the northeast area of town near the Wilton border, Halm said.

"Bears are now a part of our landscape," Halm said. "We can expect sightings on a regular basis [as] they are roaming for food and territory."

According to Halm, bears can be seen year-round and will avoid confrontation whenever possible, however residents should always have hazing tools available for all large predators.

To avoid attracting bears, Halm recommended residents secure their garbage cans or invest in a bear-proof can. She also advised against leaving any food source outside.

"Understand that chickens, bee hives, vegetable gardens, dirty grills and compost are all attractants for bears," Halm said.

Bear sightings should be reported to New Canaan Animal Control and the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, Halm said.