Massive Bear Spotted Near Southington

A massive black bear nicknamed Captain Jack has been spotted in Wolcott and may very well be traveling to Southington.

Captain Jack was spotted in the 800 and lower 900 block of homes on Spindle Hill Rd. in Wolcott, according to the Wolcott Dog Pound Facebook page.

Southington Animal Control Officer David Ireland said it is possible the bear could roam into town, according to the Record-Journal.

The bear is reportedly about 400 pounds.

Bird feeders had been found raided and a bee keeper on the road said a bear had destroyed his hives.

Cameras were set-up to catch Jack the next time he got a craving for honey and sure enough he came back to the scene of the crime.

Captain Jack’s antics aren’t to be taken lightly, the pound warns. They advise people not to approach or feed the bear and that bird feeders or garbage left in the open could attract him.

The Department of Energy and Environmental Protection is aware of the sighting. Concerned residents who see the bear should report it to their local police department.

More info on black bears in the state from DEEP. Also, info on how to report bear sightings.

Correction: A previous version of this story stated the bear was 900 pounds. DEEP officials estimate the bear is about 400 pounds.

Images via Wolcott Dog Pound Facebook