100s Of Bear Sightings Reported In CT: See Town By Town Numbers

Bear season is underway in Connecticut, and sightings are already on the rise as black bears emerge from winter and begin searching for food.

According to data from the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, there have been about 937 reported bear sightings statewide so far in 2026, with activity recorded in more than 100 towns.

Wildlife officials say spring marks the start of peak bear activity, as animals leave their dens and look for easily accessible food sources.

Town-level data shows sightings are spread across much of the state, with the highest concentrations in central Connecticut.

Among the towns with the most reported sightings so far this year:

• West Hartford — 89
• Simsbury — 70
• Farmington — 61
• Torrington — 53
• Granby — 43

Local animal control agencies across Connecticut have also begun reporting increased bear activity in recent weeks, with sightings, photos and videos appearing on social media as the animals move through residential areas.

In Monroe, officials recently reported a bear roaming through neighborhoods and getting into unsecured trash.

In Vernon, animal control said bears have already taken down several bird feeders.

And in Fairfield, officials reported the first black bear sighting of the year in mid-March, noting activity typically increases as temperatures rise.

How To Avoid Bear Conflicts

Wildlife officials with the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection say most negative encounters can be avoided by removing easy food sources and keeping a safe distance.

Animal control officials have been reminding residents that seeing a bear is not an emergency and should not prompt a call to 911, noting that the animals are active every year as they search for food.

Residents are encouraged to:

• Secure trash cans with tight-fitting lids and store them in a garage or shed when possible
• Remove bird feeders during warmer months, when bears are most active
• Keep pet food indoors and avoid leaving food outside
• Clean grills and outdoor eating areas to reduce food odors
• Never intentionally feed bears, which can cause them to lose their natural fear of people

If you encounter a bear, officials recommend:

• Staying calm and keeping your distance
• Making noise to alert the bear to your presence
• Backing away slowly — never running

Officials say taking these steps can help reduce the risk of conflicts as bear activity increases in the spring months.