Black Bears Spotted Seeking Food 

During the week of June 5, police received reports of at least five local black bear sightings.

Those sightings occurred in the area of Glen Road/Pootatuck Park in Sandy Hook, and also in the area of Farrell Road, Nelson Lane, and Patricia Lane in Hawleyville, police said.

Police expect that the various sightings represent the presence of more than one bear.

None of the reported sightings resulted in any injuries to people, police said.

Bears are attracted to homes to feed on garbage, pet food that is left outdoors, compost piles, fruit from trees, berries, and birdseed and suet from birdfeeders.

If residents should spot a bear, they are asked to report it to the state Department of Environmental Protection’s wildlife unit at 860-675-8130.