Yes, Connecticut has bears, and their population is growing. The species found throughout the state is the American Black Bear (Ursus americanus), the smallest bear species in North America. Black bears are highly adaptable omnivores that have successfully re-established themselves in the region after a long absence. Their increasing numbers mean that sightings are becoming common across Connecticut, including in suburban and even urban areas. Understanding this growing presence is the first step toward learning how to safely coexist with these large mammals.
Confirmation and Geographic Distribution
Black bears were extirpated from Connecticut by the mid-1800s, primarily due to the widespread clearing of forests for agriculture. The subsequent regrowth of Connecticut’s forests, which now cover a significant portion of the state, created a suitable habitat that allowed bears to return. A resident population was confirmed by the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) in the 1980s. This return illustrates the resilience of the species and the recovery of the natural environment.
The current black bear population in Connecticut is estimated to be between 1,000 and 1,200 animals, a number that continues to follow a long-term trend of growth and expansion. While the highest concentration of bears remains in the northwest region, particularly Litchfield County, sightings have been reported across the state. This geographic expansion is confirmed by the increasing number of municipalities reporting sows with offspring, indicating that breeding populations are establishing themselves further east and south.
The DEEP tracks thousands of public sighting reports each year, which helps monitor the population’s distribution and growth across the state. GPS data from collared bears shows that their large home ranges often overlap rural, suburban, and urban communities, leading to more human-bear interactions. Bears are drawn into residential areas because easily accessible, calorie-rich human-associated foods are abundant near homes. This availability of food is a primary driver of the increasing number of conflicts reported annually.
Preventing Bear Encounters on Private Property
The most effective strategy for minimizing human-bear conflict involves eliminating the food sources that attract bears to residential properties. Bears that regularly find food near homes become “food-conditioned” and lose their natural fear of people, which significantly increases the risk of property damage and dangerous encounters. Residents must proactively remove attractants to make their property a “No-Bear-Food-Zone”.
Garbage management is a primary step, as bears possess an excellent sense of smell that can detect refuse from a great distance. All trash should be stored in secure, airtight containers inside a garage, shed, or other enclosed area until the morning of collection. Cleaning garbage cans with ammonia or a bleach solution helps reduce residual odors. Never intentionally feed bears or toss food scraps outside, as this is illegal and encourages dependence on human sources.
Outdoor food sources like bird feeders should be removed entirely during the bears’ active season, which typically runs from late March through November. If bears are consistently active in the area, the DEEP recommends avoiding bird feeders altogether, as they are a major attractant. Pet food should never be left outdoors, especially overnight, as it provides an easy meal that encourages bears to linger near homes.
Outdoor cooking areas also require attention; barbecue grills must be thoroughly cleaned after every use to remove food residue and grease. If possible, storing cleaned grills inside a garage or shed further reduces the likelihood of attracting a bear. Compost piles should not contain meat scraps, sweet foods, or other items that produce strong odors that attract bears. Managing these attractants is the most important action a homeowner can take to avoid a conflict.
Guidelines for Bear Encounters
Knowing how to react if a black bear is sighted is essential for safety, whether on your property or while hiking. If you see a bear at a distance, the best action is to simply leave it alone and observe from a safe vantage point. Never attempt to approach the bear for a photograph or to get a closer look. If the bear is in your yard, go inside immediately and make loud noises from indoors to encourage the bear to leave.
When a bear is encountered at close range, the most important rule is to remain calm and never run, as running may trigger a pursuit response. Instead, back away slowly while keeping your eyes on the animal. You should make your presence known by speaking in a firm voice, yelling, clapping, or making other loud noises to scare the bear away.
To appear more intimidating, make yourself look as large as possible by waving your arms or holding a jacket or backpack over your head. If a bear stands on its hind legs, it is usually attempting to see or smell better and is not a sign of aggression. If the bear persistently approaches or charges, stand your ground and fight back with everything available, such as sticks, rocks, or a backpack.
Sightings and encounters should be reported to the Connecticut DEEP to help officials monitor bear activity and manage the population. If a bear causes property damage or exhibits bold behavior, contact the DEEP Wildlife Division directly. Reporting helps wildlife professionals track habituated bears that may pose a risk.