Living with Black Bears

Black bear sightings in the Barkhamsted area are on the rise. Bears are attracted to the garbage, pet food, compost piles, fruit trees and bird feeders around houses. Aggression by bears towards humans is exceptionally rare. Bears need not be feared, just respected.

If you have bears near your home:

• DO make bird feeders and bird food inaccessible by discontinuing the feeding of birds from late March through November, or by hanging feeders at least ten feet above the ground and six feet away from tree trunks.

• DO eliminate food attractants by placing garbage cans inside a garage or shed. Add ammonia to trash to make it unpalatable.

• DO clean and store grills away after use.

• DO turn on outside lights at night prior to going outside.

• DO walk away slowly if you surprise a bear nearby.

• DON'T intentionally feed bears. Bears that become accustomed to finding food near your home may become "problem" bears.

• DON'T leave pet food outside overnight.

• DON’T add meat or sweets to a compost pile.

Bear sightings should be reported to the DEP at 860-424-3333 (the line is open 24 hours a day).