Connecticut residents are being urged by the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection to reduce bear conflicts this fall, following a record 68 home entries by black bears in 2024. A bear also bit a resident in July. Bear-related incidents here in Connecticut have tripled in recent years, with bears now spotted in all 169 cities and towns. DEEP warns that fall is a critical time, as bears increase feeding to prepare for winter. Secure trash, remove bird feeders, and avoid leaving pet food outside to keep bears at a safe distance.