Bear Spotted in Shelton

SHELTON, CT — Police received reports of a bear spotting in the area of Dexter Drive, Walnut Tree Hill Road and Cardinal Drive.

Residents can report sightings to police and/or to the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Wildlife Division at 860-424-3011. Reports can also be made online.

The mere presence of a bear doesn't necessitate its removal. Over the past few years bears have become a more common sight across Connecticut as its population has grown. To sign up for Shelton and Derby breaking news alerts and more, click here.

There were about 6,700 bear sightings in the state during 2016 across 134 out of 169 towns.

Recently a curious bear checked out the smell of fresh brownies in Avon.

More tips from DEEP:

If a bear is seen in your town or neighborhood, leave it alone. In most situations, if left alone and given an avenue for escape, the bear will usually wander back into more secluded areas. 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 steps to avoid conflicts and problems with black bears:
BEARS NEAR YOUR HOME
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.
• DON'T intentionally 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.

Photo Credit: Paul Fusco/CT DEEP-Wildlife, not of Shelton bear