Black Bears

CTLCV has worked on non-lethal wildlife management for years. Bears are a key member of our ecosystem, critical for pollination and seed dispersal, and their numbers are well within carrying capacity. By the mid-1800's, Connecticut's black bear population was completely eradicated by hunting and habitat destruction - thankfully they have returned to our state in recent years. In order to protect the return of their population, hunting of black bears is prohibited in CT, but there have been failed efforts to renew a bear hunt in CT in 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2021. Black bears only reproduce every 2-3 years, making them particularly vulnerable to over-hunting. 

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The Solution 

CT should develop a public education and outreach plan to effectively reduce human-bear conflict, and practice human-wildlife coexistence.

Some examples would be: 

• removal of attractants (garbage, bird feeders from March through November, pet food etc.)
• posting signs on state trails, advising hikers of techniques in case of bear encounters​
• keeping dogs on leashes at all times
• using a whistle and carrying bear spray while hiking

Public education campaigns across the United States have proven to be successful in managing populations and encouraging public participation in conservation efforts.

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