Tolland’s Black Bears
Recently Tolland Animal Control Department has received an increase in calls reporting concerns of Black Bears in the area. To date none of these animals have caused any real concern and other than some reports of minor structural damage to chicken coops and bird feeders, they are seemingly going about their own business. There have been no reports of any acts of aggression towards people. It is normal for these animals to become more active at this time of year after having been in hibernation all winter. If you see one of these wonderful animals making their way through your lawn, take a moment to enjoy the sight from a safe distance.
To deter bears from being on your property, please be sure to keep all garbage in closed containers, don’t put food out in compost piles close to your home, put away bird feeders, do not leave pet food outdoors, and do not leave small animals outside unattended. You may hang wind chimes, bang on metal objects, or hit car alarm buttons to frighten them away.
On May 5th at 7:00 P.M. Tolland Animal Control will be hosting a presentation on Black Bears in Connecticut. This presentation will be held at the Tolland Fire Department’s Training Center located at 191 Merrow Road. The keynote speaker is Paul Colburn, Master Wildlife Biologist. Mr. Colburn works with the CT DEEP and will share his knowledge along with helpful information on cohabitating with these beautiful animals and understanding their habits. If anyone is interested in attending, please register by calling Tolland Animal Control at 860-871-3676 (you may leave a message) or send an email to animalcontrol@tolland.org. Be sure to include your name, phone number and the number of people planning to attend. Please note that you do not have to be a Tolland resident to attend, seats will be reserved on a first-come, first-served basis and the presentation is free.
For more information on Black Bears in CT, please click here to be directed to the CT DEEP Website.
If a resident witnesses any wild animal acting aggressively towards either a human or a companion animal, please contact Tolland Animal Control at 860-871-3676.