Once it was safe to walk outside during the day or night; now it’s questionable whether you or your pets will get attacked by a bear. Specifically in Beacon Falls CT, bear sightings have increased throughout the summer of 2024. The sightings have occurred during the day and during the night, making it difficult to enjoy the summer weather.
During the summer Beacon Falls residents like to spend their time soaking up nature. Residents like to spend time in their backyard with their animals, children, family and friends. Lately residents have been sighting big brown bears in their backyard or on their street. This is making it scary and nerve wracking for residents as they feel uncomfortable spending time outside, letting pets out, children playing outside.
“One night I was letting my dog outside and next thing I know her fur spikes up and she starts growling… there was a bear a few feet away from us,” said Samantha Muttick, Beacon Falls Resident.
However, this is not the only occurrence for a bear sighting. Beacon Falls residents like to communicate with each other via Ring and Facebook community pages. These community pages are often blown up by surrounding neighbors of the community, making them aware that there are bears in their backyards, front yards, in their trash.
The reason why bear sightings have increased is unknown, however;the speculation and assumption from the Department of Energy and Environmental protection, is that since CT is expanding in population and land they are trying to find new habitats. The bears are looking for habitats that give them comfort, food, and protection.
Since bears are coming closer to humans and their animals, children, it is important to know tactics to protect yourselves- stay calm and try to keep your distance. In circumstances where keeping distance is not available then try and bang objects to make loud sounds.
While it is frustrating for residents of Beacon Falls and other towns that bears are coming closer to their properties and their homes. Being aware of your surroundings and learning those tactics could help. It is not impossible to spend time outside but be on the lookout.
