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Have You Spotted A Bear? Brookfield Police Say Leave Them Alone

BROOKFIELD, Conn. — A number of black bears have been spotted recently in town — and that's completely normal, according to the Brookfield Police Department. 

A bear with a tag in each ear. Bears are tagged by the state during the winter.

A bear with a tag in each ear. Bears are tagged by the state during the winter.

Photo Credit: Paul J. Fusco/DEEP Wildlife Division

"We have been getting reports of some black bear sightings in town. Please be aware that this is consistent with a bear's normal behaviors as they forage for food," Brookfield police said in a Facebook post. 

In the past 52 weeks, a total of 68 black bear sightings in Brookfield have been reported to the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection. 

Brookfield police offered a few tips for residents to remember when it comes to bears near homes: 

  • Maintain control of all pets for their safety 
  • Do not leave garbage cans unsecured  
  • Never approach a bear. They are typically docile but can be aggressive if they feel threatened, especially when there are cubs nearby. 
DEEP also offers these tips:
  • Remove birdfeeders and bird food from your yard for the summer.
  • Clean and store grills in a garage or shed after use. (Propane cylinders should be stored outside.)
  • 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.
  • Don't add meat or sweets to a compost pile.

Follow these tips to make living among our bear residents a safe experience for everyone, police said. 

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