10/31/2026
🐻 **BEARS IN CONNECTICUT – A FALL REMINDER FROM WESTON ANIMAL CONTROL**
Bear sightings are becoming more frequent throughout Connecticut, and Weston is no exception!
This time of year, black bears are actively searching for food as they prepare for winter. During the fall, bears enter a period of increased feeding activity called *hyperphagia*. They spend much of their time eating and building up fat reserves to help them get through the winter months.
As a result, residents may notice bears traveling through neighborhoods, crossing roads, visiting yards, or investigating properties for food.
**A VERY IMPORTANT REMINDER ABOUT CALLING 911**
Weston Animal Control has been receiving calls about bear sightings through our regular dispatch line, but we are also receiving calls through 911.
A bear walking through your yard, crossing the road, or passing through your neighborhood is generally not an emergency and does NOT warrant a 911 call.
Please remember that 911 must remain available for emergencies requiring an immediate police, fire, or medical response.
If you see a bear simply passing through, give it space and allow it to move along. Do not call 911 just to report a sighting.
**WHAT SHOULD YOU DO IF YOU SEE A BEAR?**
- Keep your distance. Never approach, surround, or attempt to feed a bear.
- Never try to get close for a photograph.
- Bring pets inside and supervise them when outdoors.
- If you encounter a bear, remain calm, give it an escape route, and slowly back away.
- If a bear approaches you, make yourself appear large, speak firmly, and do not run.
- Never intentionally approach a bear or attempt to interact with it.
**HELP KEEP BEARS OUT OF YOUR YARD**
Much of the time, bears are attracted to properties because of easily accessible food.
- Take bird feeders down, particularly during bear season.
- Secure garbage in a garage or other enclosed area until collection day.
- Do not leave pet food outside.
- Clean outdoor grills and remove food residue.
- Secure compost and other potential food sources.
If bears continue finding food on your property, they are more likely to return.
**WANT TO REPORT A BEAR SIGHTING?**
Residents can report bear sightings directly to the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (CT DEEP) through its official Bear Sighting Report page:
https://portal.ct.gov/deep/wildlife/bears/bear-sightings
For an immediate threat to human safety or an actual emergency involving a bear, contact CT DEEP's 24-hour dispatch line at **860-424-3333**. If someone is in immediate danger, call 911.
**A FEW THINGS TO REMEMBER:**
🐻 Bears are a natural part of Connecticut's wildlife.
🐻 Seeing a bear in Weston is not unusual, especially during the fall.
🐻 A bear sighting does not automatically mean the bear is aggressive or dangerous.
🐻 The best way to prevent unwanted bear visits is to remove food sources and give wildlife the space it needs.
We share our community with wildlife. A little awareness and a few simple precautions can go a long way toward keeping people, pets, and bears safe.
Thank you for helping us keep Weston a safe place for both our residents and our wildlife!
**– Weston Animal Control**
