Be On The Lookout For Black Bears: Easton Police

EASTON, CT — Police are warning residents there have been several black bear sightings in the past few days.

In each instance, the bears have made a bee-line for their neighbors' bird feeders.

The Easton Police are echoing direction from the wildlife biologists at the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection who advise that bears should never be fed, either intentionally or accidentally.

Bears are attracted to garbage, pet food, compost piles, and fruit trees, according to guidelines posted on DEEP's website. Birdfeeders are another big draw, and should be removed from late March through November. DEEP also advises residents to keep garbage cans inside a garage or shed, and treat the trash with ammonia. The agency advises against storing bird seed or recyclables in a porch or screened sunroom as bears can smell these items and will rip screens to get at them.

Easton residents have reported 11 bears in town since the start of the season at the end of March.