Manchester Officials Issue 'Bear Sighting' Advisory

MANCHESTER, CT — Officials in Manchester have issued a "bear sighting" advisory.

"Black bears are now common in Connecticut and sightings can occur anywhere," officials said.

Residents are being urged to follow several steps from the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection to "stay safe" from the bears:

Remove food attractants:

• Take down bird-feeders from March – November.
• Secure trash in bear-proof cans or inside garages.
• Don’t leave pet food outdoors.

Keep it clean:

• Wash grills and garbage bins regularly.
• Avoid putting meat scraps or sweets in the compost.

Encounter safety:

• Make noise (yell or clap) if a bear is near.
• Never run. Back away slowly.
• If it approaches, stay tall, wave your arms, shout, and use bear spray if available.

Report sightings:

• See a bear around homes or public places? Call DEEP at 860-424-3333 (24-hour) or the Wildlife Division at 860-424-3011.
• For emergencies call 9-1-1

Why it matters: Reducing easy access to food helps prevent bears from getting used to human areas.

Your Role: Your actions can make a difference. Cut off bears’ access to food, and they’ll naturally move on.