An unexpected guest stirred up a bit of commotion on a recent Sunday morning when a transient black bear made a brief appearance at Irwin Park. While the sight of a bear in the area might be cause for concern, local authorities have assured residents that the bear is simply on a journey back to its familiar stomping grounds in New York.
According to officials, the initial sighting of the black bear occurred around 7:00 a.m. in Irwin Park. Following this initial report, several residents claimed to have spotted the bear ambling in the direction of the neighboring state.
“There are bears in New Canaan. The bears in New Canaan keep to themselves,” Sean Godejohn, New Canaan’s Animal Control Officer, told the New Canaan Sentinel.
While encounters with black bears in New Canaan aren’t exactly unheard of officials were quick to assuage any fears among residents, affirming that these creatures tend to prefer their solitude over any human interaction.
Godejohn continued, “The bear that was at Irwin park has moved back to New York. I received reports of the bear heading in that direction from three different residents. None of the bears we have in New Canaan live here. To the best of my knowledge bears come into New Canaan just to pass through from New York and Wilton.”
He also strongly advised against any attempts to approach or feed the bears, as this could lead to unpredictable outcomes. Should anyone come face-to-face with a bear at close quarters, Godejohn shared an invaluable tip: “If you see a bear do not approach or feed the bears. If a bear approaches you don’t run, instead make yourself look big by waving your arms and slowly back away towards a safe structure like a house or a car.”
For those keen on enjoying outdoor activities or leisurely strolls, Godejohn offered a set of bear-safe practices. “Some good deterrents are walking with your dog, bears are scared of barking dogs. Even Chihuahuas barking have been known to scare black bears. When jogging or hiking trails wear bells or a noise maker that will alert the bear that you’re in the area so that you don’t sneak up on one. You can even place bells on your dog’s collar or harness.”
On the preventive front, Godejohn recommends residents “don’t leave food unattended outside and place your trash cans in your garage or shed. Bears are also attracted to bird feeds.”
To steer clear of bear encounters:
Do not feed bears: Bears associating food with people can become bold and even aggressive, posing a risk to safety and potentially leading to euthanization.
Remove bird feeders: Take them down from late March through November. If bears visit in winter, remove the feeders.
Wait to put out trash: Only do so on the morning of collection, adding ammonia to trash bags to mask food odors. Store trash bags in a secure container.
No overnight pet food: Don’t leave pet food outdoors overnight and store livestock food in sealed containers.
Compost with care: Avoid putting meats or aromatic fruit rinds in compost piles. Sprinkle lime to reduce odor and deter bears.
Clean grills: Thoroughly clean them after use or store in a safe place.
Community effort: Encourage neighbors to adopt similar precautions.
In case you spot a bear or have animal-related concerns, residents are urged to swiftly reach out to New Canaan Animal Control at 203-594-3510 or, in emergencies, the New Canaan Police Department at 203-594-3500.
So, while the transient black bear’s pit stop might have caused a brief stir, New Canaan residents are armed with knowledge and guidance to coexist harmoniously with these majestic creatures that occasionally pass through town.
