New Canaan Animal Control Offers Tips To Avoid Attracting Bears

NEW CANAAN, CT — In light of a recent incident in which a 10-year-old boy was attacked by a black bear in Morris, New Canaan Animal Control reminds residents of ways to coexist with bears in town.

In a news release, Animal Control Officer Allyson Halm said black bear sightings are becoming more common in New Canaan year-round, so the more residents know about them the safer they can be.

"Black bears are the least dangerous bear species in North America, and there have been only 67 fatal attacks by black bear on humans in the last 120 years," Halm said in a news release. "They generally avoid interactions with humans and retreat from conflict."

Halm also noted a bear's sense of smell is seven times greater than that of a bloodhound.

The following tips were provided by New Canaan Animal Control:

1. Be aware pumpkins will attract bear.
2. Do not hang bird feeders on porches decks or patios.
3. Take in bird feeders at dusk.
4. Be aware chicken coops and beehives are major attractants.
5. Keep garbage cans in the garage or locked shed and only put garbage out the morning of pick up.
6. Keep your grill clean.
7. Keep all your doors closed.
8. Do not feed pets outside.
9. Have hazing tools at the ready including bear spray.
10. Do not feed the wildlife!

Residents are asked to report bear sightings to New Canaan Animal Control at 203-594-3510.