Several Bear Sightings Reported In North Haven: Police

NORTH HAVEN, CT — Police are advising residents of several bear sightings that have been reported in North Haven.

Police said they received several calls, and some videos, early Wednesday morning regarding black bear sightings in the area of Route 22 and Victor Road, along with the 200 block of Mill Road.

Read more from the police department below:

Black bears are becoming increasingly common in Connecticut as the population continues to grow and expand. Reports of bear sightings, even in heavily populated residential areas, have been on the rise. The primary contributing factor to bear nuisance problems is the presence of easily-accessible food sources near homes and businesses.

Fed bears can become habituated and lose their fear of humans. Bears should NEVER be fed, either intentionally or accidentally. Residents should take the following simple steps to avoid conflicts and problems with black bears:

Bears are attracted to garbage, pet food, compost piles, fruit trees, and birdfeeders.

DO remove birdfeeders and bird food from late March through November.

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 in a garage or shed after use. (Propane cylinders should be stored outside.)

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

DON'T approach or try to get closer to a bear to get a photo or video.

DON'T leave pet food outside overnight.

DON'T add meat or sweets to a compost pile.

DON'T store leftover bird seed or recyclables in a porch or screened sunroom as bears can smell these items and will rip screens to get at them.