Bear Warning Issued By Canton Police

CANTON, CT — With bears now waking up from their winter hibernation, the Canton Police Department is warning folks in town to be careful and not do anything to attract them.

Canton is home to rural neighborhoods and woodlands that are inhabited by the sharp-toothed, sharp-clawed, furry creatures.

And like many towns in Connecticut, Canton regularly has its fair share of bear sightings.

Given the bears' size and biological ability to cause harm if provoked, police said it is best to stay away from them and keep them away.

As a result, the CPD last week offered the following tips to be more "bear aware:"

• Never feed the bears.

• Take down bird feeders. Don't store bird seed in areas where bears can get to it.

• Store garbage and recyclable materials in secure, airtight containers, preferably inside a garage or storage area if possible.

• Keep barbecue grills clean. The scent of a used, unclean barbecue grill can attract bears.

• Supervise dogs at all times and keep them on a short leash when walking or hiking.

• Don't leave pet food outdoors or feed pets outside.

In recent years, Canton has had some high-profile bear encounters.

In 2023. A family of bears actually barged into a Canton residence, requiring authorities to tranquilize the bears and relocate them.

And in 2024, a business owner in Canton shot and killed an attacking bear out of self-defense on Cheryl Drive.

For more information on bears in Connecticut, click on this link.

For more information on reporting a bear sighting to the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, click on this link.